Anyone, of any age, at any time can fall. Unfortunately, I have personal experience on this topic. I have had a few bad falls in my lifetime and when I look back on them, I realize they all could have been prevented. In fact, just last week I had a slight fall because I was looking down at my phone while walking down the street and not paying attention that there was a dip in the sidewalk. Almost twisted my ankle simply because I thought I could do two things at once.
Falling can be a simple stumble where the only thing you injure is your pride, but it can also be serious enough to change someone's life forever! That is why I am sharing with you tips on how to prevent a fall to commemorate November's Falls Prevention Month.
Falls can happen at anytime and anywhere, that is why it's important to be aware of the types of things that can cause a fall from happening.
Out and About:
Now that winter is upon us, use ice grips on your shoes and if applicable, ice picks on the end of your cane or walker.
Watch out for wet, smooth or shiny floors in public buildings.
Wear proper footwear - a snug fit with non-slip treads.
Watch for uneven surfaces, cracks, obstacles, and unmarked curbs.
Walk on well-lit sidewalks.
Use stairs that have at least one handrail.
Avoid jaywalking. Use marked crosswalks so that you are visible to drivers.
Keep a bag of sand or cat litter in your vehicle door so you can use it to scatter on a patch of ice before exiting your vehicle in a parking lot.
In the Home:
Keep floors and pathways clear of furniture, cords and clutter.
Be cautious when moving between different flooring surfaces in your home.
Keep stairs free of clutter. Find alternate places in the home to store items.
Remove scatter rugs and mats. Use non-slip mats on slippery surfaces like bathroom floors and tubs.
Install safety grab bars by your shower, tub and toilet.
Ensure you have a light by your bed.
Use nightlights and motion sensors in hallways and bathrooms.
If you have had a fall, please talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. For more information on how to prevent falls and keep yourself safe, check out: findingbalancealberta.ca
Remember, every year, 1 in 3 Alberta seniors will fall.
STAY SAFE!
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