Preventing falls in the home
Living independently in one’s own home is something that we all want and strive for. This is both for ourselves and for our aging family members. But as we age, it can be harder to do so safely. Although declines in hearing, vision, strength, and mobility are a normal part of aging, falls do not have to be an irrevocable part of getting older. In fact, there are many simple things that people can do to help reduce the chance of falling at home.
First, stay healthy! That is certainly something that is easier said than done but, in this case, it refers to the basics. Stay active for at least 30 minutes every day. Even light activity around the house will keep muscles strengthened and challenge the balance centres of your brain. You can also do targeted exercise prescribed by a health care provider or join exercise groups specific to improving balance such as yoga or tai chi.