With the snow falling outside and the slippery conditions that arise at times, people may be at a higher risk for falling outside. But, did you know falls in general account for a large number of hospital admissions and emergency room visits in people over age 65? Some people may be fearful to talk to their family or medical professionals about falls, so the number of people falling could be even higher.
Falls may be influenced by many factors including age, number of medications being taken, vision changes, sensation changes in the feet, nutritional deficiencies, and prior or current illnesses. Falls can also be affected by home hazards such as wires on the floor, loose carpet edges and throw rugs, pets and poor lighting.
See part 2 to find out how to stay safe and what to do if a fall occurs.
~Rebecca V. Kane MSPT, cert MDT