It’s that time of year when we make our New Year’s resolutions. You know, eat healthier, exercise more, yada yada yada.
Here is my resolution, “I resolve not to fall this year.”
In 2019 I fell four times, two ambulance rides, numerous follow-up doctor visits and I scared the daylights out of my wife. The only good thing that came out of it was that the CT Scan showed I have a really big brain. That confirmed my suspicions.
Falls are one of the main causes of injury in people over age 65. As you get older, you are not as steady on your feet as you once were. You may have health problems you didn’t have when you were younger. Amen, brother, amen.
Below are some questions relating to the most common reasons for falling.
- Have you fallen or stumbled in the last year?
- Are you over 65?
- Are you ever dizzy or lightheaded with standing?
- Do you use a cane or walker?
- Do you have two or more chronic medical conditions?
- Do you take three or more medications?
- Do you have diabetes?
- Are there hazards in your home that might cause you to fall, such as loose rugs or poor lighting?
- Do you have a pet that jumps on you or might trip you?
- Have you stopped getting regular exercise?
- Do you drink alcohol?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, take steps to reduce your risk of a fall. It’s normal to be scared of falling, especially if you have fallen before. Being afraid can make you more likely to fall. Fear might cause you to be less active. Fear can lead to isolation from others, depression, or the use of more medicines or alcohol. All these things make falling even more likely.
Besides helping my wife to be worry-free in 2020, I want to insure that I am healthy so that I can help Veterans. That has been my mission for many years and I definitely want to continue that mission.
I hope that you and your families have a safe and happy 2020.
