The Risk of Falling

As a senior (still hard to say this), I am very cognizant of the risk of falling, how easy it actually is, and how much damage can be done. I admit I have sometimes tripped on the stairs, even over my two feet. So far, all I have to show for my falls is three (badly) sprained ankles.  But I have no illusion that won’t change. As we age, our bones get more brittle, plus we don’t react as fast to stop a fall. One fall can change the quality of your life and all your plans and your retirement years.

 So, what do we do?  We recently moved to a condominium with all hardwood floors, so we purchased quite a few carpets, which I know can be dangerous.  I bought pads that prevent them from moving, but I also went the extra mile and taped the edges down.  I am also diligent when I walk down stairs and look down.  Many years ago, I had a severe ankle sprain when I missed a step, and I don’t want to do that again. When you carry a clothes basket or something else, missing a step is easy. Going down stairs is more dangerous when you wear bifocals, as looking down, you see “close,” making it more difficult. 

 A few tips. Look ahead, and don’t do anything else when walking, such as texting on your phone. Such   distractions pose a significant risk of falling.  Always use the handrails (i.e., in the subways and escalators).  Yes, they may be full of germs, so use a tissue, have a pocket-sized hand sanitizer, or wash your hands when finished.  Don’t carry too many things at once, affecting your balance. If you carry a purse or tote, be sure it’s not heavy. Good balance is essential, and it changes as we age. There are online exercises you can practice daily to work on balance.  Consider taking a yoga class geared toward seniors. You would be surprised to learn how it can improve your balance and also teach you how to get up from the floor. That’s another necessary lesson in itself! We tend to lean forward more when we age, and with gravity, any little thing may knock us over. And our reaction times are slower, which increases the odds of doing a “face plant” as we may be unable to stop our falls. 

 In cold, wet weather, don’t go out unless you must. Wear proper shoes, and look down to be sure you are not walking onto black ice.  Slow down and walk carefully. And if you do fall and hit your head (even if you don’t lose consciousness), call your doctor or go to the ER or urgent care, especially if you are on anticoagulation medications, aspirin, Plavix, Coumadin, Eliquis). 

 The answer is to do as much as you can to avoid falling. Be aware when walking, whether it be a walk in the neighborhood or up or down the stairs. Be sure rugs are securely in place. Keep all paths in your home clear to eliminate possible tripping. Maintain good balance. Falls are more prevalent in older adults, but with forethought and planning, they don’t have to happen.