Fall Avoidance in Assisted Living

Broken bones for the young are often just an annoyance that heals quickly. For the older adult they are life changing. Too often a fall can mean never walking again or death. The question is how to prevent the fall that results in a broken bone. Two possible solutions are pills or exercise.

Modern medicine will tell you that the key is too have a bone density test done. Then if it shows a problem they have a pill for you to take. I read a couple of books lately and followed up by reading a few research studies. I never realized that bone density tests are based on young people. The value that they want us to achieve is a value based on a healthy young twenty something. Some experts say that the standard is unachievable. Modern medicine would like us to believe though that if we take a bone promoting pill, calcium and vitamin D that our bones will improve. Taking a pill sounds easy, and over the years I have given a ton of them, without a thought until recently. A friend and I were discussing her plight recently. Her doctor ordered her an osteoporosis medication but she felt awful when she took it. These drugs that help with bones unfortunately can cause stomach and mouth ulcers, heartburn, and swallowing problems.

The question my friend asked was what to do? She stopped the medication shortly after starting but is wondering about other options. I told her the best prevention to a broken bone is improving your balance. Since good balance means she will decrease the chance of falling and therefor avoid broken bones.

A few years ago I read the hint to stand on one foot a lot. This led me to start brushing my teeth, while standing on only one foot. I like to make it more difficult by simulating my ice skating days, bending low and then standing back up. Additionally, going for walks, lifting weights, getting up from the floor without using your hands and anything else that promotes strength and balance. Great balance decreases our chances of falling and breaking a bone.

If poor balance is already a problem then use a walker. Remember the old saying, pride comes before the fall? So true in this case. I always wonder what makes a person look older the bruised face from a fall or a smiling happy upright person using a walker. I pray that I will opt for a walker when my day comes.

Here at Abiding Joy Senior Care Home fall prevention is a priority. We have seen first hand the damage that a fall can have. We believe short hallways and a personal touch help keep our residents safe. For more information or a tour contact Karen at 682-231-2449.