One in three adults age 65 and over takes a fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Falls are a leading cause of broken hips and head injuries among seniors. Health often declines after a hip fracture, especially when surgery is required, which is why it’s so important to prevent falls from happening in the first place. Given the potentially disastrous consequences of a fall, prevention is the key. Let’s look at some ways to help prevent falls and some of the equipment Medicare covers to help seniors prevent slips and falls.
1: Improve Home Safety
There are many ways to make your home safer in order to prevent slips and falls. One way is to reduce trip hazards—make sure carpets and throw rugs are in good condition, and don’t have upturned corners or edges that you could trip over. Install grab bars around toilets, as well as in or outside the tub or shower. Ensure that all stairways inside and outside the home have adequate railings.
2: Always Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with non-skid soles and good support to reduce the chances of a fall. This is especially important while outside, as streets, sidewalks, and footpaths can have uneven footing.
3: Have Your Vision Checked
Vision can change almost imperceptibly over time. Impaired vision can impact depth perception and make it more difficult to navigate through space. This increases the likelihood of a trip or fall. Because vision changes tend to happen slowly over time, it’s important to get your eyes checked annually and have your eyeglass prescription updated as needed.
4: Exercise Regularly
One of the best ways to prevent falls is to keep muscles strong. Exercise strengthens your core and helps improve your balance. Water exercises in the pool are easy on the joints, yet still provide the resistance needed to improve muscle strength. Read more about water exercises for seniors.
5: Use Assistive Devices
Many seniors are reluctant to use an assistive device like a cane or walker for help getting around, but it’s especially important to use one of these devices if you have balance issues or have taken a fall before. At home you may be able to get by holding on to walls or furniture for support, but, when out and about, it’s especially important to use a cane or walker to avoid a fall if you feel unsteady on your feet. Medicare provides coverage for “durable medical equipment” like canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters when they are medically necessary.
6: Review Your Medications
Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, increasing a person’s chances of having a fall. If any of the medications you take cause these symptoms, talk with your doctor to find out if there is alternative medication option.
If you do take a fall, seek immediate medical attention and always have the following information written down and kept in a safe place, such as your purse or wallet:
- Your medical history and any medical conditions you have
- Medications you take (over-the-counter and prescription)
- Emergency and family contacts
- Medicare or/and health insurance cards
Avoidance is the key when it comes to slips and falls. Following these and other tips can help prevent falls and resulting disabilities.
For questions about what Medicare covers, and for help with Medicare enrollment, the experts at CA Medicare can help. Call us today to find out about Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug plans, Medicare supplement plans, and more.
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