September is Falls Prevention Awareness month and in this episode we wanted to shed more light on this important cause. Unexpected falls can cause much more than just physical damage. There are many mental and emotional aspects that come into play not just for the person who experienced a fall but also surrounding friends and family. Falls can occur at any age but the most vulnerable are older adults or those with disabilities.
Luckily there are a few easy things that you can do to minimize the risk of a fall to remain safe in your home or living space.
In This Episode You Will Learn:
1). What Falls Prevention Awareness Month is and why it has become so important to recognize each year.
2). Why it’s important to highlight Falls Prevention Month in all independent and assisted living facilities.
3). The importance of including easy to follow balance exercises each week in your regular exercise routines which help build strength and stability.
4). How certain medications can cause problems with balance which can lead to falls and other physical complications and why it’s important to discuss this with your doctor.
5). Why it’s important to make sure any assistive devices like a walker or cane are regularly checked so they don’t break or collapse which can lead to a dangerous fall.
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We hope the tips in this episode are helpful to you or someone you know who may have experienced a fall. Making sure to take a few extra steps in securing your surroundings to avoid the risk of a fall will go a long way to a safer, healthier, more independent life for you and your loved ones.
Team Meredith