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Your Health with Dr. McShine
[This is the first column in a regular series of health information and wellness tips from Emerson Health Sudbury.]
September is Fall Prevention Month, an important reminder that preventing accidents is an important part of protecting your health and independence. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults. The good news is that many are preventable with some simple lifestyle adjustments.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
A fall can lead to broken bones, head injuries, or even hospital stays. Beyond the physical injuries, falling can also cause people to lose confidence in moving around, which may lead to reduced activity, muscle weakness, and even more risk of future accidents. The key is to take steps now to stay safe and steady.
Tips to Prevent Accidents at Home and Beyond
- Stay active. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance, and keeps joints flexible. Walking, yoga, tai chi, or light strength training can make a big difference.
- Check your vision and hearing. Poor eyesight or hearing loss can affect balance. Keep up with annual eye and hearing exams.
- Review your medications. Some medications, or combinations of them, can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Ask your doctor if any of your prescriptions affect balance or result in an increased risk for falls.
- Make your home safer. Remove clutter and loose rugs, keep walkways well lit, and install grab bars in the bathroom. Simple updates like adding non-slip mats can reduce risks.
- Wear proper footwear. Shoes with good support and non-slip soles provide better stability than slippers, sandals, or socks.
- Be mindful outdoors. Watch for uneven sidewalks, wet leaves, or icy patches as the seasons change.
When to See Your Primary Care Doctor to Prevent Falls
Your primary care provider is your partner in fall prevention. Schedule a visit if:
- You fell recently or had a recent accident, even if you were not seriously injured.
- You feel unsteady, dizzy, or notice changes in your balance.
- You take multiple medications and want to review their side effects.
- You are concerned about your risk because of health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or neuropathy.
When to Seek Medical Care After a Fall
It is important to know when an accident requires medical attention. You should seek medical care promptly if you experience:
- Pain in your hips, back, or joints.
- Difficulty walking or putting weight on a leg or foot.
- A bump on the head, dizziness, or confusion.
- Cuts, bruises, or swelling that becomes worse instead of heals.
- Any new weakness, numbness, or vision changes.
During your visit, your physician can perform balance tests, review your medications, check your blood pressure, and recommend personalized strategies, such as physical therapy or a referral to a specialist.
The Bottom Line
Preventing falls is not just about avoiding injuries. It is about staying active, independent, and confident in your daily life. This September, take a few small steps to protect yourself and talk with your primary care provider about ways you can stay steady and strong.
This information was provided by Dr. Randall McShine, primary care doctor with Emerson Health Primary Care Sudbury. To learn more or make an appointment, call Dr. McShine’s office at 978-579-6018.