5 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Falling for Seniors
According to the CDC, for seniors, falls are the top reason for injuries (and, in some cases, death from falling). Not only are the elderly more at risk for falls, but if they take a tumble, it presents a greater risk for injuries, complications, and hospitalization. Because September is Falls Prevention Month, today, Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, is sharing 5 ways seniors can lower their fall risk.
To help prevent falls, seniors should begin by looking at their foot health. Painful foot problems, such as corns, bunions, hammertoes, osteoarthritis, and complications from diabetes, can make it challenging for the elderly to maintain coordination and balance when standing or walking.
Adding to the issue is that the same exercises meant to correct risk factors, like lower-body weakness and balance and gait issues, are difficult to do when someone suffers from painful ankle and foot problems.
While many factors cause falls, experts say that everyone, regardless of age, can take steps to decrease their risk by minimizing or eliminating foot pain. It will improve coordination, stability, and balance when standing or walking.
Podiatrists recommend the following tips to help keep ankles and feet happy and healthy.
Don’t disregard pain: Foot pain is not a normal result of aging, so don’t resign yourself to the suffering. You probably have a treatable condition. For a proper diagnosis, be sure to pay particular attention to your feet and visit a podiatrist if you experience pain.
Inspect your feet: Regular at-home foot examinations are essential because you are the gatekeeper of your health. Make an appointment with your podiatrist as soon as possible at the sign of lumps, bumps, or other changes to your feet.
Exercise: Doing some simple stretching exercises can help you uphold the mobility and strength in your ankles and feet while providing pain relief. Talk to your podiatrist about what exercises are right for you.
Protect: Use insoles, padding, or whatever special footwear you’ve been prescribed and wear them, along with sensible comfortable shoes, daily.
Remain flexible: In some cases, surgery is the most effective treatment for certain conditions—fortunately, many surgical techniques can be performed on an outpatient basis.
Remember, one fall can forever deprive seniors of their freedom and radically reduce their quality of life. Caring for ankles and feet can decrease the risk of a life-altering trip or fall.
If you do fall, immediately contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Glen Burnie, Maryland, at (410) 761-3501.