TIPS TO PREVENT FALLS

I wrote this for the local paper as too many people end up visiting the Accident and Emergency departments and possibly being admitted to the hospital due to falls.

Thinking of people I know who have fallen this year often they could have been prevented by simple measures like keeping hydrated, wearing sensible shoes if going walking --the list goes on.

Dr Mabel Blades – Public Governor for East Northamptonshire and freelance dietitian and Faizal Rayan Staff Governor and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

 Twitter @blades_mabel

 

Sadly, people often end up coming to the hospital after a fall which results in a fracture of a bone which requires orthopaedic expertise. Fractures such as a broken hip require surgery combined with a stay in hospital. This is then followed by help with physiotherapists and rehabilitation which can take a while.

 

 We felt some tips based on our combined interests to prevent falls would be helpful and we will expand on these in the New year.

 

·       Take vitamin D which helps to keep bones strong

·       Check you are eating properly

·       Take enough fluid 2 litres per day for most adults

·       Wear supportive shoes especially outside

·       Get your eyes tested regularly so that you can easily see trip hazards

·       Also have your hearing checked  as if it is fading and you have not realised  you may not hear alerts about items

 

Try to keep active with regular gentle exercise. Walking is always good.

 

While it can be a temptation to drink excess alcohol this time of year. Try to keep to the maximum of 14 units per week!