Eight signs that aging loved ones need to put the brakes on driving
Posted July 8, 2015
Continue readingPREVENT
Posted September 6, 2015
Each year, millions of older adults fall, resulting in broken bones, head injuries or worse. Anyone can take a bad fall, but the risk of falling increases with age, along with the severity of the injury. Studies show that seniors take longer to recover from a fall, and falls often result in reduced ability to live independently.
Falls in the home are more frequent for older adults who have difficulty walking without assistance, or who struggle performing daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking and cleaning. Seniors who are more independent are more prone to fall outside.
The good news: falling is not an inevitable part of aging. Falls are largely preventable and there are some easy steps you can take to reduce the risk for you or a loved one.
Certain medications can increase your fall risk. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines—both prescription and over-the-counter—to identify medicines that may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year to ensure your prescription maximizes your vision.
Finally, exercise regularly to improve your strength and balance. Find something you enjoy; go walking, lift weights, garden or even dance every day. Sign up for a Tai Chi class or ask your doctor for advice on local balance programs or formal physical therapy. There are options for every level of physical ability and it's never too late to start.
Falls prevention awareness screening
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Learn morePosted July 8, 2015
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