Myths About Falling As We Age

It's likely that you have more free time now as an older adult than you've ever had before. You might be using this time exploring new cities, spending time with your grandchildren, and doing all the things that bring you joy. No matter how active you are, though, falls can still happen because no one is immune from a fall.

Now, it is important to note that getting older does not mean that it's guaranteed you'll fall, but studies out of the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention show that fall risk does increase with age. Furthermore, the CDC finds that these falls are costly and preventable. To make sure you know the facts about falling, we wanted to share some common misconceptions about falls. This information will help you live a healthier life, so that you can be your best self for you and your loved ones. Here are some common misconceptions about falling: cities, spending time with your grandchildren, and doing all the things that bring you joy. No matter how active you are, though, falls can still happen, because no one is immune from a fall. Now, it is important to note that getting older does not mean that it's guaranteed you'll fall, but studies out of the US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention show that fall risk does increase with age. Furthermore, the CDC finds that these falls are costly and preventable. To make sure you know the facts about falling, we wanted to share some common misconceptions about falls. This information will help you live a healthier life, so that you can be your best self for you and your loved ones. Here are some common misconceptions about falling:

Myth #1: I will not fall because I am healthy and active - only unhealthy and inactive people fall.

Even if we aren't completely conscious that we are having this thought, many of us might think to ourselves: "Falling won't happen to me—I'm in great shape!" This is a very common thought, especially if you are active throughout your daily routine.

However, with around 1 in 4 older adults falling each year, falls are more common than most of us think. That doesn't mean we should live in fear of falling – but we should take the necessary precautions to protect ourselves, just as we'd wear a helmet riding a bike or a seatbelt riding in a car. Doing these things will reduce your risk of serious injury after falling:

• Protect your head. Learn techniques to fall in a safe manner by bracing.
• Avoid reaching out with hands. Extending your hands to break a fall can lead to fractures. Instead, use your arms to protect your head and try to roll.
• Do not make any sudden movements after you have hit the ground—take things slow after the impact of your fall.
• Try to land on the fleshy parts of your body (like your buttocks or thighs) rather than on bony areas.
• Wear a medical alert device, like the Silvertree Reach.

Myth #2: Everyone will fall at a certain age, and I can't stop that from happening to me

This myth is perpetuated by the notion that falls are inevitable for older adults. And while 25% of older adults will experience a fall, it is not inevitable for all. It's important to remember that most falls can be prevented, so it is always a good idea to take preventative steps to minimize your risk. According to industry experts, these things can help reduce your fall risk:

• Maintain Physical Fitness:
• Strength Training: Strengthen muscles, especially in the legs and core, to improve balance.
• Flexibility Exercises: Stretch regularly to maintain a good range of motion.
• Balance Training: Activities like yoga, tai chi, or balance exercises can enhance stability.
• Environmental Adjustments:
• Clear Pathways: Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter.
• Good Lighting: Ensure areas are well-lit to see potential obstacles.
• Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and on stairs.
• Use Assistive Devices:
• Handrails and Grab Bars: Install them in key areas like bathrooms and staircases.
• Walking Aids: Use canes or walkers if needed for additional stability

Myth #3: If I stay home, I won't fall

You might think that staying in your home will prevent falls. This is simply not true, as over half of falls amongst older adults happen within the home. For your own safety, be sure to check your home for hazards. Staying safe in the home is possible when you take the right steps to make your home safer.

Myth #4: I shouldn't reach out if I am nervous about falling

Oftentimes we tell ourselves that we don't need to reach out to family, friends, or caregivers to discuss our anxieties about falling. We may feel that we don't want to jeopardize our independence or burden our loved ones. However, safety brings peace of mind, so fall prevention is a team effort! Speaking with your loved ones will start conversations about how to make simple home modifications to remove hazards and can also open conversations about creating a plan in the case of a fall.

Myth #5: Medical alert devices will detect all falls

Medical alert devices can certainly save your life in an emergency. But it's important to understand that no medical alert device can detect 100% of falls. Although keeping this myth about false alarms in mind is imperative, you should also know that medical alert devices are still vital tools that can prevent falls. To learn more about how Silvertree detects falls, visit this page.

To Live an Empowered and Independent Life, Choose Silvertree

You have a lot more memories to make, so don't let the fear of falling slow you down. Instead, be aware that falling is not something that must happen to you, though it is certainly something that could happen to you. Even when we take every precaution, a fall can still happen. To ensure the best possible outcome, we always need to be prepared. Consider trying a Silvertree Reach to ensure you get the attention you need.