10 Steps to Help Older Adults Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls

Elderly woman fell on the floor

Some of the most serious injuries among older adults, age 65 and older, are caused by falling. More than 1.6 million older Americans end up in the emergency room or hospital because of a fall, according to the National Institutes of Health. Seniors who have broken a hip by falling can have trouble recovering and regaining mobility.110 Steps to Help Older Adults Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls0 Steps to Help Older Adults Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls The good news is many falls are preventable. One of the first things you can do if you take prescription medication is have

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3 Rolling Walkers You Need to Cover Every Situation

At Senior.com we are often asked, “Which rollator (rolling walker) is the best one to buy?”  That’s a complicated question because one rollator will not solve all mobility issues.   Just like young parents usually own multiple strollers for their kids for different circumstances, we would like to suggest you own these 3 products to prevent falls and give you the freedom you deserve. 4-Wheel Rollator with a Seat for Getting Out If you want to freely move in the community, a 4-wheel rollator with a seat is the best choice. You could select a standard rollator that will do the job

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8 aging-in-place home modifications for seniors

8 DIY projects to make your home safer as you age Around 90 percent of seniors plan on living in their own home for at least five to 10 years after turning 65, according to the AARP. In turn, the number of remodeling companies doing aging in place upgrades has increased. Eighty percent of remodeling companies are making aging in place home improvements, up from 68 percent in 2013, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Aging in place is cheaper and more comfortable than going the assisted living route for many people. A typical assisted living home

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Overlooked Link Between Stroke and Osteoporosis

Physiotherapist giving back massage to senior patient

Did you know stroke is a risk factor for falls, fractures, and even osteoporosis? It’s true! Research shows you’re 4x more likely to suffer a fracture in the year after a stroke than your average person. And another study found patients lost up to 14% hip bone density in the year after stroke! Now, if you think about it, this makes sense. After a stroke, you may have difficulty moving around. You may favor one leg. Struggle with your balance. You probably won’t get right back on your regular exercise schedule…  And the less you move, the more your bone

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New Study Highlights the Importance of “Postural Sway” 

Senior adult practicing yoga by the pool

Yes, low bone density can potentially lead to a fracture. But there’s another factor that can increase fracture risk by more than 10 times! It’s something called “postural sway.” Below, I’ll explain what that is, how a new study shows it’s something to be concerned about, and — the good news! — what you can do to make it less of an issue. What is Postural Sway? Postural sway is basically how well you can maintain balance while “quiet standing” (not speaking or doing anything else).  That might sound pretty straightforward, but it’s not! Just standing still is the result

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Protecting Seniors from Winter Slips and Falls

Understand Your Caregiving Options

It’s no secret that slips and falls are especially dangerous for seniors. According to the CDC, nearly three million American seniors suffer falls every year. Perhaps more importantly, the rate of seniors who lose their lives to unintentional falls is climbing year after year. Protecting Seniors from Winter Slips & Falls For those of us who live in ice and snow country, there’s no more dangerous time of the year for slips and falls than during winter. So, whether you’re an older American worried about falling during the winter or a younger person concerned for the health of an older relative,

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Link Between Fractures and Fatalities

Physical Therapy, Stretching, Senior Woman

You’ve probably heard how a hip fracture can change your life in the blink of an eye. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 people pass away within a year of fracturing a hip The International Osteoporosis Foundation reports more bleak numbers: 40% of hip fracture patients can no longer walk without help; a full 60% require assistance within a year, and 1 in 3 lose their independence and end up in an assisted living facility by year’s end. Yet the largest study of its kind shows any fracture after age 45 can mean the worst...   Scary Link Between Fractures and

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Living Room Fall Prevention Guide

Making your living room safe is critical to both the aging loved one and the caregiver.  Trying to stand from a soft couch often causes shoulder and wrist injuries or a significant fall.  Often seniors will wait for someone in the home to help them stand up, which limits their freedom and can cause anxiety when you need to use the restroom.  For caregivers, repeatedly helping someone to stand from a seated position will cause painful back injuries! For a small investment, you can outfit your home for fall prevention.   These recommended products ensure both the aging senior and caregiver

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Best Bedroom Products for Fall Prevention

Senior woman sitting in a bedroom

It’s important to address safety for seniors in the bedroom, since falls are a considerable risk getting in and out of bed.   With just a few products you can ensure that you can remain as independent as possible all night long.  Here are our favorite bedroom accessories and bed to make your bedroom a safe and comfortable place. Top 3 Bedroom Accessories for Fall Prevention Adult Bed Rail & Cushioned Support Bed Swivel Handle [caption id="attachment_113635" align="alignright" width="300"] Swiveling Bed Rail only $99[/caption] This Mobility Bed Rail has an extra pivoting arm to provide extra support while walking or transferring

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