EXERCISE
Taking regular physical exercise is a great way to reduce the chances of having a fall. This can begin when you’re younger. Regular walks and outdoor exercise build muscle strength, co-ordination and flexibility.
Similarly, indoor exercise like Yoga and Pilates can significantly improve your physical condition, improving balance, co-ordination and confidence.
If you’re older and looking to improve your fitness, it’s always good to consult with experts. Talk to your GP, if you have any medical conditions that affect your mobility. Joining group exercise sessions aimed at older people is a good way of meeting people and exercising: being supervised by a trainer is a safe option too.
Walking remains one of the very best forms of exercise. Walking on uneven surfaces – the kind you’ll encounter walking off-road - is extremely good for conditioning your leg muscles, which play a key role in balance. However, if you don’t walk regularly or have health conditions, walk on flat, even surfaces if you can.
NUTRITION
Good nutrition – eating well – is another key preventative measure if you’re trying to reduce the chances of falling. In later life, it remains really important to eat calcium-rich food, such as cheese and milk, which are important for bone strength. But a good, balanced diet goes beyond that. If you’re unsure if your diet is healthy, ask for advice. Remember, alcohol can impair your ability to balance.
MEDICATION
If you are taking medication, it’s important to be aware of any side effects. In particular, if you feel dizzy or unbalanced, consult your GP, who can look at tweaking doses and combinations of medicines.
EYES AND EARS
Both sight and hearing and the health of your eyes and ears can affect your balance. Having regular sight and hearing checks is important and can help prevent falls.
FOOT HEALTH
Uncomfortable or painful feet can obviously have an impact on your walking and balance. Don’t ignore foot health. Visit a chiropodist or podiatrist for nail trimming and other foot-health treatments.
CONTINENCE
A surprising number of falls occur when people are rushing to the toilet. Consult your GP if incontinence is a problem for you. There are a number of remedies and practical measures you can take to help you cope with this issue.
FRIENDS, FAMILY & CARERS
The greatest source of support with falling issues are your friends, family and your Bluebird Care professionals. If you are worried about falling, talk to them about your concerns. Let them help you identify the risks and support you as you seek to eliminate or reduce those risks.
Bluebird Care South Leeds
We provide Home Care, Night Care, Live-in Care and a range of other support in the South Leeds area, including the following:
- South Central Leeds & City Centre
- Middleton
- Garforth
- Farnley
- Wortley
- Armley
- Holton
- Barwick
- Swarcliffe
- Colton
- Morley
- Pudsey
- Batley
- Ossett