Suffering from a fall as a senior citizen is no joke. As an individual ages, they become more prone to tumbling and tripping both inside and outside of their home. These falls can be life-threatening and may occur on staircases or hard, dangerous surfaces. Although falls may happen for any number of reasons, the health of a senior’s feet can be an influential factor. Therefore, one way to prevent falls from occurring in senior citizens is to strengthen the feet by practicing several simple exercises. These exercises can improve the strength in the senior’s feet muscles and increase balance. One such exercise is known as leg extensions and can be performed by repeatedly extending and raising one leg at a time while sitting in a chair. You can alternate the legs after each extension. The purpose of this exercise is to increase strength and agility in the leg muscles. If stretching seems boring or unappealing, a senior might also try to improve the strength of their feet by walking, practicing tai chi, or performing simple movements in the pool. If you are a senior who is concerned about their likelihood of suffering from a fall, you can contact a podiatrist for more information about strength-building exercises.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Ainsley Rusevlyan, DPM from InStride Roberson Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.