" Helping you is what we do."        

Falls Prevention

    It may surprise you that falls are the leading cause of accidental death among seniors, both for men and women. More startling, however, is how the average lifespan of a senior who has fallen once, drops so dramatically. Half of long-term care admissions are fall related! Falls often lead to an overall decline in general health among seniors. Preventing falls is crucial to seniors' health, safety and longevity.

    Here are some tips for reducing the risks of falling, though it is far from an exhaustive list! These can be put into practice in your own life, or in the lives of aging friends, parents, or other relatives.

Participate in physical activity. There is no age at which our bodies become incapable of building muscle. Good muscle strength is extremely important in falls prevention.

Wear safe shoes. Shoes should fit well, have broad, flat heels, and have soles that grip.

Increase safety in the home.

•     Adequate lighting is extremely important.
   
•     Loose mats or rugs should be secured or removed. These are one of the most common hazards in the home, yet easily dealt with.
   
•     Install grab bars, particularly in the bathroom.
   
•     Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
   
•     Clear away clutter in hallways and on the floor.
   
•     Clean up spills immediately.
   
•     Clear away chords and other loose wiring.

Increase safety outside the home.

•     Paint edges of stairs and steps a bright colour for easy visibility.
   
•     Fix broken and cracked sidewalks, patios, and other walking areas.
   
•     Ensure good lighting is in place for outside steps and stairs.
   
•     Keep paths well swept.
   
•     Kill moss, fungi, and other plant growth on pathways.
   

Other suggestions:

•     Have your eyes tested annually.
   
•     Consider a personal alarm system if you are prone to falling.
   
•     Consider assistive walking/mobility devices. (We can recommend local, Victoria-area professionals.)
   

•     Visit the website below (and others you may find) for more information on how to reduce the risk of falls in your life, and in the lives of those you care about.
  
  Veterans Affairs Canada - Falls Prevention Initiative

Cheri Crause, Rick Hoogendoorn, Richard and Brenda Jacques

ROYAL LEPAGE COAST CAPITAL REALTY - OAK BAY

1933 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC  V8R 1C8

Phone: 250 592-4422

Toll Free: 1 800 263-4753

Fax: 250 592-6600

copyright 2008     Cheri Crause & Associates Inc.
Cheri Crause, Real Estate Agent
Certified Senior Advisor
former Certified Financial Planner
Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

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