Essay Example on Falls are the number one cause of death for seniors in America

Subcategory:

Category:

Words:

512

Pages:

2

Views:

180

Falls are the number one cause of death for seniors in America and there is a misconception out there that falls only happen to frail unhealthy seniors This isn't the case Just as many falls happen to healthy active seniors who maintain various activities outside in their community We have asked our senior home care experts how to help prevent falls in the community to help you identify your risks while outside your home Taking Public Transportation While using the public transportation system there are plenty of fall risks You could fall going in and out of the bus or train It is important to let the driver known if you require any assistance stepping up or out A lot of times seniors feel that they can do this themselves but don't realize that the step down is further away than they anticipated and they stumble Be sure if you do feel you are able to help yourself up onto the bus or train that you use the provide handles to support your weight Also when choosing where to sit make sure that you choose a seat near the front and ask the driver to wait for you to take your seat before they start moving If you do require additional assistance you can ask the driver or a friendly straighter for some support Using Sidewalks Crosswalks While going out for walks in your community or visiting neighbors using the sidewalks and crosswalks is the safest way but always ensure that your walking path is safe 



This includes being aware of any uneven pavement cracks or holes that may be on the sidewalk or road If you walk with a cane or a walker be on the lookout for the curb cut By using the curb cut you will help to ensure that you don't stumble taking a step down off of the curb Watching for Stormy Weather While out walking in the community it is also important to be aware of the weather happening in your area If you do see that stormy weather is coming in you can ask to stay at your neighbors until the weather clears or turn around to go back home before the storm worsens Just be very careful of puddles as those can have holes filled with water Be sure to take your time walking home if you start to rush it can lead to slipping and falling on wet pavement Try to stick to areas plenty of lighting and consider wearing reflective gear Getting In and Out of Vehicles A lot of times one of the biggest challenges for seniors is getting in and out of vehicles There are various equipment like a handy bar that you can install into your car A handy bar latches onto your door to give you additional leverage and support so you can push down placing weight onto the bar while you are getting up and out Also by placing a padded swivel on your car seat you can help to rotate your body and settle into your vehicle more safely This will also help you to feel more confident entering and exiting your vehicle Proper Shoes Not only is it important for you to be aware of your surroundings it is important that you dress properly as well Make sure you wear shoes that provides you traction grip and have firm rubber soles Although we always like to wear our favorite shoes while going outdoors you must ensure that they still have proper grip as they get older 



Wearing shoes that have little to no grip can increase your risk of falling on slippery surfaces Keeping Your Balance The simplest things like carrying your groceries inside your home can lead to a fall Rushing to get inside and start putting away the groceries you must make sure that you are not carrying too many objects that will put you off balance causing a fall If you do find yourself being overwhelming with carrying items you can lighten your load and take additional trips Vision Checks If you are someone with current vision problems you are twice as likely to fall than anyone who does not currently have vision problems Doctors suggest that you have your eyes checked once a year to maintain any potential prescription changes You may be someone who only require reading glasses or bifocals be sure to not wear these glasses while you are outdoors These types or prescriptions will make it harder for you to see potential hazards on the ground So be sure to bring your proper glasses Asking For Additional Help It is important to understand your limits as you get older You may not be able to do the things you used to do or go for walks or long drives That is okay Additional help is available to you with senior home care They are able to help build your strength and balance with in home therapy They can also help to provide you information on additional medical equipment that you can use inside and outside your home to help keep you safer and prevent falls



Write and Proofread Your Essay
With Noplag Writing Assistance App

Plagiarism Checker

Spell Checker

Virtual Writing Assistant

Grammar Checker

Citation Assistance

Smart Online Editor

Start Writing Now

Start Writing like a PRO

Start