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Don't Let Falls Trip You Up: Tips On Avoiding Falls

Posted 6/21/2010

Some say a fear of falling can be a very real factor when it comes to a loss of mobility in the elderly.

(NAPSI)-An activity as simple as falling down can have a number of serious consequences for an older person.

For example, some say a fear of falling can be a very real factor when it comes to a loss of mobility in the elderly.

Fractures of the hip or forearm are also common results of falling among the elderly. Hip fractures in particular can lead to other health problems because of prolonged immobility and risks associated with surgery.

To help, here are some general tips to reduce your risk of falling:

When you first wake up, sit on the edge of the bed and make sure you are not dizzy before you get out of bed.
Eat breakfast every morning. Skipping a meal could make you dizzy.
Use a cane or walker if you are unsteady, and replace worn rubber tips.
Never grab a towel rack, shampoo holder or soap tray for support in the shower. These will not support a person's weight.
Let the soap suds go down the drain before you move around in the shower. Don't turn suddenly.
If you are not close to the telephone when it rings, don't rush to it. Fast moves can throw you off balance.
Make sure you have access to a telephone that you can reach to call for help if you fall. Consider carrying a portable phone.

According to a leading national provider of home care--Interim HealthCare--some medicines may also increase your risk for falling, particularly if they have side effects such as drowsiness, fainting or extreme weakness.

However, it suggests that people should never discontinue taking such medicines on their own without consulting with a doctor. The types of over-the-counter drugs that can cause problems include:

Antihistamines. These are medicines commonly bought to control allergies or when you have a cold and include Benadryl Allergy, Dimetapp Allergy, Aller-Chlor and Chlor-Trimeton. These drugs can cause drowsiness and increase the risk of falling.
Cough Medicines. A drug called dextromethorphan is common and is in Delsym, Drixoral, Pertussin CS and Robitussin. All these medicines have the risk of some sedation or making you very sleepy and unsteady on your feet.
Decongestants. Pseudoephedrine is a primary ingredient in allergy and cold medicines such as DayQuil and Sudafed and can cause dizziness.

To learn more, visit www.interimhealthcare.com or call toll free (800) 944-8888.

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