What to do if you worried about a loved one falling



This is the last in the 5 part fall prevention series and is aimed at families and friends who have loved ones that they are concerned are at risk for a fall.  

Here are a few tips:

1. Review the list of risk factors for falling that I covered in week one with your loved one.  How many risk factors do they have?

 
There are 10 main risk factors related to falling

• Risk Taking: For example changing a light-bulb on a wobbly stool
• Balance: Poor balance due to muscle weakness, loss of vision and changes in the inner ear
• Nutrition: Not eating foods with the right amount of calories and nutrients
• Footwear: Shoes with poor support (for example flip flops)
• Vision: Loss of vision or not having regular eye exams
• Dizziness: This could be due to interactions with medications, low blood pressure or inadequate nutrition
•  Depression: Can result in less activity which causes decreased strength and balance
• Leg Strength: In week two in this fall prevention blog series I will share an exercise program with the best leg exercises to prevent falls
• Attention:  Not focusing while walking can cause people not to notice cracks in the sidewalk, curbs or icy patches on the road
• Home and Bathroom Safety: Small changes to the home including things like getting rid of curling area rugs and adding grab bars in the bathroom can significantly decrease your risk of falling.  In the last week of this fall prevention series is about fall proofing your home.

2. Create an action plan to address the relevant risk factors that can be changed. A few examples are:

• Start an exercise program that includes strength training to improve leg strength.
• Start an exercise program that includes cardiovascular exercise to help with depression
• Book a consultation with a nutritionist to make sure that your loved one is getting adequate nutrients or simply tape Canada's Food Guide on their fridge and ask them to track their eating for a week.   Here is a link to a great nutritional guide for older adults put out by health Canada

If you have questions or would like a Vintage Fitness 50+ fitness expert to come to your home and develop a fall prevention exercise program drop me a note erin@vintagefitness.ca.

Good Luck!

Erin

Vintage Fitness & Spirit50

Phone: 416-951-7978

Vintage Fitness is an in home personal training company in Toronto, Canada.  We specialize in energizing the lives of people over 50 with exercise. 

Spirit50 is an On-line personal training with an expert in 50+ fitness.  Inspiring movement for life.

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