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By improving your health!
Your health is just as important as a safe environment in preventing
falls and reducing the risk of injury. By improving your diet, increasing
your strength and monitoring your balance, hearing, eyesight and medication,
you can considerably increase your chances of avoiding falls.
Eat well
Missing meals can cause weakness and dizziness. Eating regular, balanced,
healthy meals will help you keep up your strength. Canada's Food Guide
to Healthy Eating* is a good source of information.
Keep fit
To prevent a decline in your mobility, strength, balance and flexibility,
keep your muscles toned by accumulating at least 30 minutes of moderate
physical activity most days. If possible, walk every day, even if it's
only around the house and engage in activities or an exercise class that
will improve your strength and balance. Contact your local seniors' centre,
Legion, or local recreation department to determine what's available.
Consult Canada's Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living for
Older Adults* for more suggestions and information.
Monitor your sight and hearing
People who cannot see or hear properly are at greater risk of falling.
Be sure you wear appropriate glasses (wearing reading glasses while walking
is dangerous!). Impaired hearing also puts you at risk of falling (if
you don't hear traffic or children playing around you). Have your eyesight
and hearing tested regularly. If you need glasses or a hearing aid, wear
them!
Know your medications
Medications can cause dizziness and weakness, affecting your perception
and balance, especially if not taken as prescribed or if not suitable
for you. Be aware of the potential hazards and interactions of the medications
you use. Ask your doctor for information on the possible side effects
of all your medications and feel free to raise any questions you may have
about their benefits or undesirable effects.
Practise moderation
The negative effects of too much alcohol on our sight, hearing, balance
and judgement about personal safety are very clear. Whether used alone
or combined with medication, alcohol use can result in dangerous falls,
especially for older people. Keep to wise and moderate consumption.
*You can obtain these publications free of charge by calling
1 800 O-Canada (1 800 662-6232)
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