Falling is one thing we rarely think about until it happens. A quick misstep, a slippery floor, or even just standing too quickly can become a life-changing moment. And yet, there is an epidemic of falling among seniors. What’s remarkable is not just how common they are, but how the risk is apparently on the rise even with advances in safety, technology, and healthcare. So why does falling keep getting worse, and what can we do in order to avoid it?
Contemporary Lifestyles and Inactivity
One contributing factor is how modern lifestyles have evolved. Sedentary habits, like spending hours commuting, sitting at desks, or watching screens, result in weakened muscles and poorer balance. Without regular movement to keep the body engaged, reflexes dull, and simple movements can feel unsteady. The irony is that while modern life brings convenience, it also plays a role in physical inactivity, helping to make falling much more likely. I have noticed this in my own life! After a lengthy day sitting at my desk, even standing up can feel awkward and stiff.
Underlying Health Issues
Medical issues also play a substantial role. Issues like arthritis, diabetes, and high blood pressure affect mobility and coordination, while medications to treat these illnesses could cause side effects like fatigue or dizziness. These factors combine to create a perfect storm, where health management itself becomes a fall risk.
Environmental Dangers
Another aspect to take into account is the environment. Many homes are full of hidden hazards that often go unnoticed until it is too late. Uneven surfaces, slippery throw rugs, cluttered spaces, and poor lighting are common culprits. For people who live in older homes or apartments, stairs and narrow hallways could be challenging to navigate safely.
Mental and Sensory Changes
What’s surprising is exactly how much mental and sensory health contributes to falls. Mild cognitive impairment, changes in vision, and even slower reflexes can reduce awareness of potential risks or delay reactions when something unexpected occurs. It is not only about physical strength but the way the mind and body work together.
Steps to Stay Safe
To address these risks, the following steps can make a big difference:
- Improve Home Safety: Clear clutter, secure loose rugs, install better lighting, and consider grab bars in bathrooms or along stairways.
- Stay Active: Incorporate balance and strength exercises, like tai chi or yoga, to improve stability and confidence. Even daily walks can help.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good grip and support to reduce slipping hazards.
- Get Health Check-Ups: Regularly review medications with a physician to learn about potential side effects, and address vision or hearing changes as they arise.
- Assess Fall Risk: This free checklist will help determine an older loved one’s chance of falling.
Falling doesn’t have to define life as we grow older. Taking these simple, proactive steps can help make sure each day is lived with balance—both physically and emotionally.
For a complimentary in-home consultation and tips about how to lessen the chance of a fall for someone you love in Santa Maria, Lompoc, Santa Ynez or throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties, call Superior Senior Home Care at 805-737-4357 or reach out to us online any time.