While trying to kick ice free from the driveway, aftermath of a recent storm, both feet "unexpectedly" left the ground and horizontal I went. Thud, splat. A booty bounce right in front of son, Bennett.
"Wait, Wait, don't tell me,"...there is nothing unexpected about slipping and falling while standing on ice and kicking at it.
Ben was quick to offer assistance and check to see if the old man was okay. Thanks to the extra padding that seems to be permanently fixed to my waist and hind'ny parts, I can report no ill effects other than to my pride. I can smile about this fall but it's time to take these things seriously.
Falls, a threat to the health and independence among older adults, are the leading cause of debilitating injury among those over 65. In 2007, last year for figures, 81% of deaths from falls were among those over 65, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Each year, about a third of all adults 65 and older, fall.
Most falls are not fatal but many result in moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, bone fractures or head traumas. These falls, even tumbles involving no injuries at all, can result in a fear of falling for older adults. Fear alone may cause some seniors to limit their activities, leading to reduced mobility which causes a loss of physical fitness, which raises the possibility of that which is feared ... falling.
How can older adults take steps to reduce the chance of falling?
The combined wisdom of those who study these kinds of things, physiologist, gerontologist, health and wellness organizations, have put together a long list which includes:
* Exercise regularly. Focus on leg strength, flexibility and balance.
* Ask doctor or pharmacist to review medicines that may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
* Have eyes checked by an eye doctor.
* Make homes safer by reducing trip hazards, add grab bars, and improve the lighting.
* Last but not least...bad, snowy, icy weather? Stay indoors.
Practice getting up from the floor. Don't wait until you fall to try and figure how to get up.
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