National Injury Prevention Day is July 6 - a day that aims to raise awareness about the importance of injury prevention so Canadians can live long, healthy lives to their fullest potential.
For older adults, falls are a major cause of injury. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among Canadian seniors (1) and 20% to 30% of people aged 65 and older suffer serious falls each year (2). Furthermore, older adults who fall once are more likely to fall again (2). The risk of falls can increase as a result of several age-related factors such as loss of muscle, strength and balance, or as a result of foot-related problems. The good news is, there are ways to minimize the risk of falling and reduce your risk of injury.
Our bodies loose muscle as we age, but by doing regular physical activity that incorporates weight-bearing exercise, it is possible to build and strengthen your muscles. Exercises that improve balance such as Pilates, yoga, or Tai Chi can also help mitigate falls.
Another contributing factor to falls is poor foot health. Bunions, weak muscles, or poor range of motion in your feet can make it harder to walk.
If you’re worried about your foot health, a visit to the podiatrist can help assess, diagnose and treat lower limb problems to improve your ability to move.
To learn more about ways to stay steady on your feet and reduce your risk of falling, read through our evidence-based resources below for more information and helpful tips!
