By: News Canada
” Injuries can be extremely debilitating, especially for older adults, every effort should be made to prevent their occurrence. “
The older we get; the faster life moves. Unfortunately, as our body ages, we take on the strain of our years. Keeping pace in a hectic world can take its toll. Older adults need to use extra care to ensure their safety. Even if you’re just middle-age, you should start changing habits that will become instilled before you reach a time of greater risk in your life.
When we’re young, we can fall and almost bounce back up. Our bones and muscles are flexible enough to handle extreme sports. Then, age sets in. The warning signs come in brittle bones and weakened muscles. At this point in life, even a simple slip and fall can have disastrous consequences.
What can older people do to safeguard themselves? Boomers need to take steps – cautiously – to a safer way of life.
To Prevent Falls, Boomers Should Maintain a secure Footing at All Times
An injury caused by a fall is traumatic for anyone, but for seniors, it could involve a trip to the hospital, and a lot of pain. There could be complications that require prescription medication and pain killers… an experience that is better to avoid, if possible.
Here are some tips for preventing falls around the house:
- Make sure carpets and rugs are securely fastened to the floor, especially at the corners.
- Don’t over extend yourself to reach objects. Use a stable, secure foot stool to reach high places.
- Use a non-slip mat in the bathtub or shower.
- Keep a firm grip on hand rails while climbing or descending stairs.
- Never take unnecessary risks – don’t try to carry more than you can handle, avoid slippery surfaces such as icy sidewalks, and watch where you are walking to avoid pitfalls along the way.
Make Your Safety Back-Up Plan
Quite often, seniors live alone. They may not have a daily routine that brings them in contact with other people. For people in this situation, a fall or other mishap at home could lead to catastrophe unless a safety plan is in place.
Here’s a good solution. Arrange to speak to a specific person every day. A friend, family member, neighbor or care provider can be your direct link to safety. If you have a friend who also lives alone, make it a daily habit to keep in touch – even for a brief moment.
A simple phone call will do. Have a set time for the call so that if one person doesn’t hear from the other, they get help right away. Consistent frequency is key. During an injury, stroke, or cardiac arrest, hours mean everything.
Treat Drugs with Respect
Many seniors require medication on a daily basis. Though drugs may be an essential element of your healthy lifestyle, always remember that medication can be dangerous in the wrong hands.
Here are some pointers:
- Always dispose of unused medications by flushing them down a toilet.
- Never take prescription medicine intended for someone else.
- Always keep medicine in its original container, with dosage and instructions clearly labeled.
- Keep a log of when prescription medicines are taking for reference by someone else should you be unable to take your medicine yourself.
- Never let medical conditions go unattended. If your prescription medicine doesn’t seem to be effective, call your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Living a safe and healthy lifestyle will help you enjoy your later years!