jamesturner

KY Mountain News
HEALTH NEWS
James Turner
Building A Healthier Breathitt Co. One Step At A Time

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Falls Prevention Information
        Everyone’s vision changes with age. As you get older, your eyesight may become less clear and it may take longer to adjust to light and dark. Distance and depth maybe hard to judge. These changes can happen gradually and you might not always notice them. Have your eyes checked at least once a year by an eye doctor. Schedule it around your birthday to help you remember. If recommended, get your new glasses or new prescriptions as soon as possible.
        If you have glasses wear them and clean them daily. Have an eye care professional adjust your glasses to ensure proper fit. While you are there, have any eyeglass scratches removed. Always remember to wear sunglasses in the winter and summer to reduce glare from outside. Remove sunglasses when you enter a building and allow your eyes to adjust when moving from light to dark.
        Another factor in falls is a cluttered pathway. Always keep your path clear. Move books, boxes, shoes, and clutter out of your path and off stairs. Move extension, appliance and telephone cords that you can trip over. Watch where your pets are sleeping or lying down. Rearrange furniture to allow a clear patch.
        Don’t give your feet a reason to trip. Put away those throw and scatter rugs. Apply double-sided tape to the back of carpet to keep it from moving. Take your time when getting to the phone or to answer the door. Rushing may cause you to trip and fall. When walking up or down stairs, take your time and use the handrail.
        Brighten up your home by turning on the lights as you move through the house and up and down the stairs. Use the nightlights to brighten bedrooms, halls and bathrooms. Have a lamp or flashlight on your key chain.
        Moving your body everyday can help you feel better and enjoy life more. Being active gives you the energy you need to climb stairs and do household chores. It will help you stay flexible so you can wash your hair and tie your shoes. Keep your body moving to stay independent. Talk with your doctor or health care provider before becoming physically active. Share with them your goal of preventing a fall. Thirty minutes a day of exercise is recommended but break it into 10-15 minutes segments if necessary. Try and walk everyday even if it’s only around the house. Start slow and let the blood flow to your muscles. Always be alert of your surrounding.
        During the summer months, most of us like to stay outside. Being outside in the fresh air can help you to feel good. Make sure you wear comfortable clothing and shoes before going out. Be aware of your surroundings and environment.
Watch Your Step!!!
*Keep steps and sidewalks free of newspapers, leaves, and twigs.
*Look out for pets. It is easy to trip over a pet and their toys in your patch.
*Watch for cracks in steps and sidewalks or changes in elevation.
*When you see a tree ahead in your patch, watch for low-hanging branches, tree roots or fallen branches on the ground.
*Hurrying puts you at risk for falling.
*Take your time when getting in and out of vehicles.