Fall Prevention

Falls can happen to anyone. But it is a common problem to older people. Preventing a fall involves several steps. Paying attention to and dealing with poor eyesight, bad balance, weak feet and legs are some of the first steps in reducing the personal risk factors. Equally important is to attend to any of the existing medical situations and keeping yourself mobile. It is always good to address your personal worries about a potential fall as a result of a past fall or just being fearful about falling even if you did not have a fall in the past.

The next step is to ensure that your surroundings are as safe as possible. This would mean that your home, garden and immediate surroundings should be free of any potential hazards and any structural hazards. Sufficient lighting is very important. It is vital to remove any cause for tripping and slipping and to wear appropriate footwear.

Mayo Clinic presents the following 6 steps falls-prevention strategy:

1. Making an appointment with your doctor
2. Keep moving
3. Wear sensible shoes
4. Remove home hazards
5. Light up your living space
6. Use assistive devices

Your doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady. Other assistive devices can help, too. For example, grab rails in your shower, a raised toilet seat or one with armrests, a hand held shower etc. If necessary, ask your doctor for a referral to an occupational therapist. He or she can help you brainstorm other fall-prevention strategies. Some solutions are easily installed and relatively inexpensive. If you’re concerned about the cost, remember that an investment in fall prevention is an investment in your independence. Comfort Discovered, (Tel 9987 4500, Open 6 Days: Mon-Fri: 9:00am-5:00pm, Sat: 9:00am-4:00pm, Sun: by prior appointment) Shop 1 and 2, 73 Jersey Street North, Hornsby, NSW 2077 (Corner of Bridge Road and Jersey Street North, Opp Jay Car, Near Fire Station) stocks a wide range of walking sticks, and other assistive devices. Some of these walking sticks are foldable and can be kept in the bags. They have hundreds of solutions in store to enhance your independence, mobility and dignity.   It may not be about hiring or purchasing a suitable device, it may be to get some awareness and ideas about what we can do at home to prevent an unfortunate event. So take a look at what solutions might suit you or your loved ones.