Staying active, exercising helps older adults prevent injuries

SAN DIEGO COUNTY – The statistics are startling and eye-opening. But dispelling one common myth could be the key to preventing thousands of older San Diego County residents from showing up in local emergency departments and doctors’ offices each year after suffering fall-related injuries.

Every year, an estimated 122,000 San Diego County residents over the age of 65 will fall and more than 12,000 of those older adults will arrive at a hospital for treatment, according to the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA).

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says nationally one-third of Americans over the age of 65 fall each year. Every 14 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room. Every 29 minutes an older adult dies from an accidental fall.

“There are many factors that can cause falls to become a major issue for many older adults,” said Ellen Schmeding, the director of HHSA’s Aging & Independence Services (AIS). “As people age, physical changes, health conditions and even the medications they take to treat those health conditions can increase the potential for falling.”

She added, “There are some fairly simple things, however, that older adults can do to keep active and help prevent the likelihood of suffering a fall.”

One myth many people believe is that the best way to prevent falls is for an older adult to stay at home and limit their activities. In reality, in most cases, the opposite is true.

“Older adults should exercise regularly to improve balance, strength and flexibility,” said Schmeding. “After consulting with their physician, they should find an exercise that they are comfortable doing that focuses on increasing leg and lower body strength and improving balance.”

One exercise option for local older adults is the Tai Chi class at the Fallbrook Community Center. Tai Chi, also called “Meditation in Movement,” is a soft and slow way of movements that can be practiced by people of all ages. Benefits of this exercise include stress reduction, better focus and concentration, increased flexibility, improved strength, enhanced memory, improved circulation, and increased coordination.

There are four sessions being offered throughout the season, with the next one starting on Oct. 3 and held every Friday from 10 a.m. to 11a.m. All ages are welcome.

For cost, registration and information, contact the community center at (760) 728-1671, stop by the office at 341 Heald Lane, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or go to http://www.sdparks.org.

Tips for seniors to avoid fall-related injuries from HHSA:

Fall-related injuries can be prevented by:

• Exercising regularly to improve balance, strength and flexibility

• Asking their doctor to conduct a fall risk assessment and treat any medical risks factors.

• Reviewing prescription and over-the-counter medicines with their doctor or pharmacist to reduce side effects and interactions that can cause dizziness or drowsiness.

• Getting their vision checked at least once a year.

• Enrolling in an evidence-based program like Tai Chi.

• Wearing appropriate footwear (flat shoes with non-slip, thin soles)

Make their home safer by:

• Keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

• Improving lighting.

• Removing loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter in walkways.

• Installing grab bars and non-skid mats in bathrooms.