Preventing Falls for Seniors, Advice from University of Sydney Research Team
In New South Wales, serious fall injuries are on the rise – up 72% since 2001. Accidental falls are common for Australians age 70+, and the risk of falling rises with age. Interestingly, researchers from the University of Sydney found an easy way for seniors to prevent falls themselves.
Frankly, their advice is good for people who find it hard to budget time for exercise regardless of age.
Lindy Clemson and colleagues published their study in the British Medical Journal. They found that incorporating strength, motion, and balance exercises into everyday activities reduces the rate of accidental falls by 31%. For instance, when carrying groceries from the car, subjects may have been instructed to walk sideways to work on balance. When picking up objects from the floor or lower shelves, participants were taught to bend at the knees (and not at the waist) to work on leg strength. When getting up from a chair, some subjects were taught to not use the arms of the chair – to make it more difficult.
Clemson’s study talks about a great strategy for reducing accidental falls, but participants in the study received nine professional coaching sessions. For older adults, it may be risky to implement a strategy like this without a professional consultation. If you’re ready to take a stand against falls, give us a call. We can help.