Saturday, March 14, 2009

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY PART 1

Prevent falls at home
Each year, more than one-third of U.S. adults 65 and
older experience a fall, according to the federal Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A fall might not sound like a big deal, but among
older adults, falls are the leading cause of death due to
injury (vs. disease). In 2005, 15,800 people 65 and older
died from fall-related injuries, according to the CDC.
There are a variety of reasons older adults have a
greater fall risk, says Evelyn McKay, director of rehabili-
tation services for the Southington Care Center.These
include vision problems, certain medications, weak and
inflexible joints and muscles, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, stroke and
other conditions.
People at high fall risk — in fact, all of us — can take some easy steps to
help prevent falls at home*:
Stairs: Attach non-slip treads and mark stair edges to prevent tripping.
Stairs should be in good repair, and staircases should have handrails on
both sides.
Kitchen: Be sure floors aren’t slippery; storage areas are easy to reach
(without having to stand on tiptoe or a chair); and a non-slip mat is near
the sink to soak up spilled water.
Bathroom: Be sure doors are wide enough to accommodate walkers and
other devices; thresholds aren’t too high; tubs have skid-proof mats or
strips; tub and toilet grab bars are available; and toilet seats aren’t too low.
Bedroom: Keep lamps on a night table beside the bed; maintain a clear,
uncluttered path from the bed to the bathroom; and ensure the bed is at an
appropriate height.
General: Ensure adequate lighting throughout the house; secure throw
rugs and carpets; remove clutter to prevent tripping; keep phones and light
switches accessible; ensure chairs are strong enough (particularly arm rests)
to support you when you’re sitting down and getting up

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