Preventing Injuries Among the Elderly

Hip fractures are not only common in runners and other athletes, but also among inactive people like the elderly. No matter how much we try to prevent such injuries, accidents can happen, especially when we get older.

Falls are a leading cause of hip injuries among the elderly. We know that falls and other incidents are highly preventable, yet we fail to take precautionary measures. Here are tips to keep your senior citizens safe and away from hip injuries.

• Make exercise part of their routine. Exercises should be focused on improving and increasing leg strength as well as improving one’s balance. It is recommended to practice doing more challenging routines to overcome the previous ones.
• Be aware of their current medications. Some of their medications may have side effects that can make them more prone to accidents at home. These side effects include dizziness or drowsiness. Take the time to ask their doctor about this matter.
• A visit to their eye doctor is important. At least once a year, it is essential that their eyesight is checked by a professional. It is also during this time that their prescription eyeglasses are assessed and updated if needed.
• Reduce tripping and fall hazards in your home. Keep it as elder-friendly as possible by installing grab bars beside the toilet or outside the tup or shower. Add railings on the stairways and enhance the lighting around your home.

Although common, this does not mean that you should just let your loved one suffer from a hip injury. To learn more about preventing hip injuries and how to treat them, give us a call today at 212-876-5200 to schedule a consultation with one of our fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopaedists here at Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. You may also schedule an appointment by filling out this online contact form.