Each year, more than one in four older Canadians experiences a fall, leading to a significant number of emergency visits and hospitalizations. Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors in Canada, especially for those aged 65 and older, with about one-third of seniors falling annually—a risk that escalates with age, particularly for those over 85. Falls account for approximately 85% of injury-related hospitalizations among older Canadians, resulting in about 78,000 hospitalizations in 2022 alone, with the majority involving women. Additionally, in 2022, around 200,000 fall-related emergency visits were reported in just Ontario and Alberta. The impact on independence is profound, as falls often result in serious injuries, such as hip fractures, which can severely impair mobility and increase the likelihood of long-term care admission.
“For Canadians aged 65 and older, falls are the most common cause of injury-related deaths.”
Understanding Fall Risks and How to Prevent Them
Falls can happen to anyone at any age, but as we grow older, they become a greater concern. Each year, 1 in 3 Canadian adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall. These incidents can lead to serious injuries, long recovery times, and a reduced quality of life. However, many falls are preventable with a few key strategies and proactive measures. For example, Companionship Care is an excellent way to mitigate fall risks. By providing regular check-ins, support, and physical activity, companionship can help individuals stay active and socially engaged, which in turn helps maintain balance, strength, and coordination.
Why Falls Happen
Falls occur for a variety of reasons, and often it’s a combination of factors that lead to an incident. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Muscle Weakness and Balance Issues: As we age, our muscles lose strength, and our balance can become impaired, making it harder to stabilize ourselves when we trip or stumble.
- Environmental Hazards: Clutter, poor lighting, loose rugs, and slippery surfaces are common causes of falls at home. In public, uneven sidewalks or stairs without handrails can also pose risks.
- Vision and Hearing Decline: Reduced vision or hearing can make it harder to detect potential hazards, like obstacles or people nearby, especially in busy or unfamiliar environments.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications cause dizziness, drowsiness, or light-headedness, increasing the risk of losing balance.
- Health Conditions: Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease can affect mobility, coordination, or sensation in the feet, leading to an increased risk of falling.
How to Reduce the Risk of Falls
While falls are common, they are not an inevitable part of aging. There are many steps you can take to lower your risk and stay active, independent, and safe.
1. Strengthen Muscles and Improve Balance
Engaging in regular physical activity can make a huge difference in preventing falls. Exercises that focus on strengthening muscles, improving balance, and increasing flexibility are particularly beneficial. Consider:
- Tai Chi: This gentle exercise focuses on slow, flowing movements that build coordination and balance.
- Yoga: A great way to improve flexibility and strength while also enhancing mindfulness and body awareness.
- Walking: Even a short daily walk can help keep muscles strong and joints limber.
For those with specific physical limitations, working with a physiotherapist can help target weak areas and improve balance through tailored exercises.
2. Make Your Home Safer
Your home should be a place of safety and comfort, so it’s important to reduce potential fall hazards:
- Remove Clutter: Ensure walkways are clear of obstacles, cords, or clutter that could cause tripping.
- Use Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats in areas like the bathroom and kitchen where floors can become wet and slippery.
- Improve Lighting: Make sure all rooms, hallways, and stairwells are well-lit. Motion sensor lights can be especially helpful at night.
- Install Grab Bars and Railings: In areas like bathrooms and stairways, install grab bars and handrails to provide extra support.
3. Check Your Vision and Hearing Regularly
Regular eye exams and hearing tests are crucial as we age. Updated prescriptions for glasses or hearing aids can make a significant difference in how well you perceive your surroundings and avoid potential fall hazards.
4. Review Medications with Your Doctor
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you’re taking. Some drugs, especially those for blood pressure, pain management, or sleep, can have side effects that increase your risk of falling. Your healthcare provider can help adjust your prescriptions or suggest alternatives.
5. Use Assistive Devices if Necessary
If you have trouble with mobility or balance, using a cane, walker, or other assistive device can provide stability. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare provider or occupational therapist to ensure the device is appropriate and fits your needs.
Staying Independent and Active
Fall prevention is not just about avoiding injury—it’s about maintaining independence and confidence. By staying active, making your environment safer, and addressing any health concerns, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling.
Stay Safe with Good Comfort
At Good Comfort, we recognize the profound impact that falls can have on your life. That’s why we offer a variety of services, from home safety assessments to physiotherapy and exercise programs, all designed to help you maintain independence and stay safe at home.
Don’t wait for a fall to take action. Simple changes and a proactive approach can significantly reduce your risk, allowing you to continue enjoying life to the fullest. Whether you or a loved one needs rehabilitation support or home safety modifications, Good Comfort is here to help.
