Preventing a Fall Starts with 6 Steps

It’s shocking to think that one in three older adults (about 12 million people) in this nation fall every year. Also alarming is that every 13 seconds an elderly person visits the emergency department for a fall-related injury, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA). While these statistics may make you feel like falls are inevitable due to aging, it is simply not true.

Although many elderly people fall due to medications they are on and eyesight changes, most falls can be prevented by following these tips:

1. Make strength and balance exercises part of your routine.

2. Discuss any concerns with your doctor and have an assessment done regarding your fall risks.

3. Discuss medications and overall health with your doctor, pharmacist, and caregiver because many medications have side effects that can increase your chances of falling.

4. Get your eyesight and hearing checked every year to help stay up on your feet.

5. Inspect the home for tripping hazards and fix issues such as poor lighting, slippery throw rugs, and clutter. Also, make sure grab bars are installed where needed.

6. Discuss these steps with your family and loved one to get their support so it’s a team effort

Although most falls are preventable, there are some fall scenarios involving seniors that couldn’t have been avoidable. For example, many falls are the result of property owners’ negligence. When property owners and landlords fail to repair broken handrails, torn carpeting, broken pavement, or ensure proper lighting, people can suffer fall-related injuries.

If your injury or your elderly relative’s trauma was due to dangerous and hazardous grounds, you shouldn’t dismiss your claim due to your older age. You may have a claim for damages. To learn more about slip and fall injury lawsuits, contact the Law Offices of David Benenfeld for a free consultation with a trusted injury attorney in Fort Lauderdale at 866-9 HELP NOW or 866-943-5766 today.