After the age of 35 bone density
loss slowly increases making bones weaker. This is part of the natural aging
process. Bone density loss is faster in women for several years following the
menopause so older ladies are more at risk of falling. Bone is a living tissue that can be improved
through specific exercises and our physiotherapists can advise you on
activities to suit your need.
The good news is that getting
older does not automatically mean you are going to fall – improving your
activity levels can help dramatically.
What are the risk factors to
falling?
-smoking,
-drinking more than 3 units a day
-being inactive.
How can The Village Clinic Physio
team help?
-We can help providing a
well-designed exercise programme, tailored to yourself, which involves
strength, balance, and functional exercises, designed to reduce your chance of
falling.
-We can help you get more active:
weight bearing exercises such as walking / dance can help strengthen your bones
(weight bearing exercises are any exercise in which you are supporting your own
body weight).
-For those less active there are
starter exercises that you can do just with the use of a chair. These is no
need for expensive equipment!
Lynne’s top tips to prevent
falls:
· Avoid
rugs and slippers without backs
· Have
good lighting on your stairs and in your bedroom
· Have
your eyesight checked regularly
· Have your
hearing checked regularly – problems with ears can affect balance
· Wear
sensible, well fitting, flat shoes
· Try not
to carry too much
· Keep
hydrated – if you are dehydrated this can make you feel lightheaded
· Get
regular medication reviews with your GP surgery
· Eat
healthily and ensure your diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D
· Do
regular weight bearing exercises, e.g., walking, gardening
REMEMBER FALLS CAN BE PREVENTED
If you have any questions about
how to increase your activity levels and increase your confidence to get moving
again, please do contact physiotherapy at the Village Clinic 01242 673507
mail@villageclinic.co.uk.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/falls/
