We all want to take care of our elder family members and prevent them from any dangers or risks. Once old age hits, people start lacking basic instincts, hold of their senses and start depending on others for getting their work done. And in such a scenario, where one of the primary reasons of injury among the elders is “falling,” one must have knowledge about how to prevent such mishaps. According to a study, one in every three adults aged above 60 Fall and are rushed to the emergency department for further analysis and treatment. The possibility of falling accelerates with age. Fall-injuries involve long-term consequences such as fractures and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries not only harm older adults physically but also affect their mental health. Fortunately, falling is not an inexorable part of aging. Each one of us can take measures to ensure the safety of our loved ones. Let us look at reasons why falls are so dangerous to the lives of the elderly:
 

Source: NDTV

• Falls are a significant hazard

They can be destructive and overwhelming. Most of the falls experienced by senior citizens result in critical injuries that require immediate health care and hospitalization. The trauma one goes through is desolating and unimaginable. Some need full-time care for a long period to recover completely.

• Falls can be fatal

Falls can cost an adult his life. They are a leading cause of injury deaths. The number of deaths caused due to falls is on a rise; in the year 2004, more than 14000 adults passed away because of falls.

• Falls are Expensive

Falls, especially among older women, can cost a fortune. Treatment of fall-related injuries is costly and tedious. As the number of older adults’ increases drastically over the next few years, so will the economic burden of falls. The one and only good thing about falls is that they are preventable. Let’s have a look at the preventive measures.

Now, let’s take a look at some of the preventive measures that may help in dealing with such atrocities:
 
Prevention measures
 

• Get moving

Exercising is imperative. With age one’s bones become weak; to avoid this, a combination of cardio and yoga can do wonders for the older adults. Weight training (lifting weights) can also prove to be able to strengthen the bones of an individual in the long run.

• Be critical when it comes to medication

Many times medicines have adverse side effects that lead to unsteadiness and dizziness that ultimately result in falling. A proper doctor or pharmacist prescription may help avoid such scenarios.

• Sharp vision

When an adult has his/her eyes checked regularly and taken precautions accordingly, it automatically eliminates the hazards of falling. Glasses or contact lenses with the right power ensure their safety in such times.

• Keep hazardous elements at bay

Maximum falls take place at home. A security check at home can help reduce the elements that are most likely to cause a fall. Things such as poor lighting and clutter may be avoided as and when taken proper care of.

Every calamity may be prevented if and when taken proper care of. No one, especially the elderly may be harmed if people took care of their responsibilities and behaved vigilantly. Therefore, think first and then act; you may be able to save your dear ones from the fall.

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