Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among Canadian seniors.
This Fall Prevention Month – and all year long – arm yourself with these tips to help keep you safe and injury-free long into your golden years.
High-risk ages: 75-84
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among Canadian seniors, starting at the age of just 65. Many of us seem to think falls happen much later in life, but according to the National Institute on Ageing and TELUS Health, the majority of Canadians (66 per cent) believe that the victims of falls are between the age of 75-84.
Be aware of risks for falls and precautions to take:
- Best advice
Talk to your healthcare professional, your family doctor about what to do if a fall occurs to yourself or a loved one. The professionals can share tips and support on preventing falls, as well as managing health following a fall, that suit you and your specific needs. - Evaluate the risk
Assess the risks for falls within your own home. Creating a trip-free environment: clear and well-lit pathways, non-slip mats or rugs, installation of safety grab bars in bathrooms, handrails on all staircases. - Stay active
Staying active can help reduce accidents. Go on walks around your neighbourhood or follow online fitness videos to strengthen muscles, increase stability and balance, improve your mood and maintain a healthy immune system. This will help prevent illness and may even facilitate quicker recovery from injury. - Be prepared
Falls do happen. It is important to plan for unexpected medical emergencies. Consider a personal emergency response system (PERS) such as the LivingWell Companion from TELUS Health, which quickly connects you to trained operators who can alert emergency support services and family contacts should a fall or medical accident occur. The TELUS device provides peace of mind to seniors and their loved ones, knowing that help is available at the push of a button.
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