Stay On Your Feet!

Did you know that one in four Americans that are 65 and older fall each year?  Or that falls are the leading cause of deadly injury among older adults (1).  While we do not want you to fear gravity, it is absolutely essential to respect gravity and lower your fall risk.

Risk factors to falling: 

• Vitamin D deficiency

• Lower body weakness

• Decreased balance and reaction time

• Vision issues

• Poor footwear

• Hazards (curbs, slippery floors, etc)

Exercises to lower fall risk

1. Sit to stands (1:56)

2. Heel/toe raises (2:58)

3. Single leg balance (3:36)

Extra tips to lower fall risk:

• Perform above exercises regularly

• Wear non-slip socks 

• Create safe home environment

• Do not be ashamed to use assistance device (cane, walker, etc)
  

Again, our goal is for you to respect gravity without fearing it.  Please do not forget to live, laugh, and love!

Written by Kenneth Kells III, DPT

References

1.  https://www.ncoa.org/news/resources-for-reporters/get-the-facts/falls-prevention-facts/