You Can Reduce Your Risk of Falling

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Each September, the National Council on Aging sponsors Falls Prevention Week. At NY Foot Health, we support this important initiative for our seniors. Consider the following devastating statistics:

  • Each day, two older New Yorkers die as the result of a fall.

  • Emergency rooms see 223 senior New Yorkers for falls everyday.

  • Out of the 233 seniors in the emergency rooms each day, 140 are hospitalized, and 60% of these end up in a nursing home or rehabilitation center, 11% suffer a traumatic brain injury, and 27% fracture a hip.

In total, falls are the number one cause of injury-related deaths, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations for people 65 and older.

Changing the Odds

Fortunately, we have the power to lower these numbers. See the tips and suggestions below and reduce the risk of falling for yourself or an older person you love.

Start at the Podiatrist’s Office—foot pain is a primary cause of falls. It’s only natural to alter your gait to avoid pain in your feet and ankles, but this can make you lose your balance and fall. Don’t put off getting foot pain treated. See your podiatrist promptly if you are experiencing a podiatric problem. If you need to find a podiatrist, use our online directory. Not only will the podiatrist treat foot issues, but he or she can also help educate you about other ways to reduce fall risk. One study showed a 36% reduction in falls for a high-risk population over 12-months with the help of podiatric interventions.

Stay on Top of Medical Conditions—there are several ways your overall health can impact your chances of taking a tumble:

  • Manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. These conditions can cause dizziness and fainting if not controlled.

  • Stick to an annual eye exam schedule. Decreased vision can be gradual and sneak up on you.

  • Review medications periodically with your physician or pharmacist to ensure there are no potential drug interactions that could cause light-headedness or dizziness.

Choose a Healthy Lifestyle—eating a nutritious diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and getting enough sleep can all work together to keep you upright. Each of these factors contributes to being physically agile and mentally alert, which reduces your risk of falling.

For more tips on preventing falls, contact us, and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.

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