Fall Prevention Week: Crestwood Manor’s Guide to Senior Safety

Fall Prevention Week is an annual campaign that brings awareness to falls and promotes strategies for preventing falls in older adults. This year’s campaign takes place September 22nd through the 26th.

Falls among seniors are common, costly, and often preventable. Each year, millions of seniors aged 65 and older experience a fall. According to the CDC, about one in ten falls is serious, resulting in an older adult having to restrict activities for at least a day or seek emergency services. 

At Crestwood Manor, we’re committed to senior safety. In this blog, we’ll provide seniors with the tools and resources they need to feel confident in fall prevention.

Identifying Fall Risks For Seniors

Experiencing just one fall can double the risk of future falls, but being aware of potential risks can help reduce some of the anxiety and stress associated with them.

Common fall risks include:

• Medical conditions or cognitive disorders impacting vision or steadiness
• Medications that affect balance and coordination
• Environmental hazards in living spaces, such as throw rugs or loose belongings
• Age-related changes, such as strength or balance issues

Physical Wellness and Fall Prevention Exercises

Maintaining physical wellness is more than just staying active; it’s a crucial part of preventing falls. Strong muscles, good balance, and flexibility help older adults move confidently, reduce the risk of injury, and maintain independence in everyday life. Below are exercise and nutrition tips every senior should keep in mind.

 Strength and Balance Exercises

Staying physically active is one of the most important ways to prevent falls in older adults. Below is a list of exercises seniors can routinely practice to strengthen their bodies:

• Sit-and-Stand Exercises can improve body mechanics and balance through sitting and standing
• Tai Chi sways allow for gentle movement from side to side to help with muscle control and stability
• Chair Yoga uses a chair for support while going through slow movements

Nutrition and Hydration Tips

As you age, the nutrients your body needs will change. According to the Ohio Department of Aging, eating and drinking properly are crucial in preventing falls in older adults.

• Consume the right amount of food based on your weight and activity level
• Look for foods that have high fiber and protein
• Choose foods that are rich in calcium and Vitamin D, and low in salt
• Stay properly hydrated to prevent low blood pressure, dizziness, and fatigue

Crestwood Manor’s multi-dimensional LivWell wellness program supports these goals with stretch and balance classes, along with a variety of dining options designed to meet residents’ nutritional needs. Always consult your doctor before making any lifestyle changes.

5 Tips for Talking to Your Doctor About Falls 

While preventing falls in older adults is not always possible, it’s essential to have open and honest conversations with your doctor. The National Council on Aging shares tips on how to talk to your doctor about falls and fall prevention. Whether you’ve experienced a fall or want to reduce your risk, these tips can help you approach your doctor confidently and get the support you need.

1. 1. Write Down a List of Questions You’d Like to Ask
2. Before your appointment, write down any concerns or topics you want to discuss, such as balance, mobility, or recent near-falls. Having a list ensures you don’t forget important questions and helps your doctor provide targeted advice. 
3. 2. Discuss Different Specialists
4. At your appointment, ask your doctor if you would benefit from seeing a physical therapist, occupational therapist, or other specialists to improve your strength, balance, mobility, medication management, or vision, all factors that can reduce fall risk.
5. 3. Take Notes and Ask About Other Resources
6. Record your doctor’s answers and recommendations to create a clear list of next steps. Your provider may also have printed materials or additional resources on fall prevention and relevant specialists.
7. 4. Inquire About a Fall Risk Assessment
8. If you’ve fallen before, have trouble walking, or generally feel unsteady, ask your doctor about a formal fall risk assessment. This evaluation can help determine whether your risk is low, medium, or high, and then your doctor can help guide preventive measures.
9. 5. Ask Follow-Up Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you’re unsure about something. Repeating information back to them is a helpful way to remember the information they shared with you.

At Crestwood Manor, our professional care team makes it a priority to help residents lead lives of purpose, no matter what stage of life they are in. We offer a full spectrum of care services from personal care to skilled nursing and senior rehabilitation, so each resident has the freedom to enjoy the life they choose. 

Resources From Crestwood Manor

Fall Prevention Week may only be celebrated one week out of the year, but at Crestwood Manor, our residents’ safety and wellness are our top priority. From staff training to resident education programs, we want our residents to feel safe and comfortable while living vibrantly.

Our LivWell program includes a number of programs designed to combine the seven dimensions of wellness. Some of the programs we offer include:

• Stretch Classes
• Guided Meditation
• Balance Classes
• On-site Health and Wellness Classes

We want to make sure our residents have the resources they need to thrive. Contact us today to learn more about Crestwood Manor and all we have to offer.