 |
|
 |
 |
|
 |
Print | YORK REGION>Services>Public Health and Safety>Injury Prevention |
|
 |
|||||||||||
    |
      |
Frequently Asked Questions
|
What are weight-bearing activities? Where can I get assistive devices? What is the proper use of a cane? Where can I get more information on foot-care?
What are weight-bearing activities?
Weight-bearing activities are anything you do on your feet, making your bones support the weight of your body. Strengthening activities and balance training will help with weight-bearing activity. Some examples of weight-bearing activities are: walking, dancing, hiking, golf, climbing stairs, gardening, bowling and jogging.
Where can I get assistive devices? Devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, bath seats and grab bars are all available from stores that sell medical supplies or wheelchairs (see the yellow pages under these headings for a list of stores). Before buying one, consider consulting a specialist such as an Occupational Therapist (a cane for example, needs to be of proper weight, length and handle for you). Also consider borrowing or renting the device to find out whether it serves your needs, especially if you are choosing between more than one device (as whether to invest in a wheelchair or a walker).
What is the proper use of a cane? Normally you should hold the cane in your right hand if you are right-handed. If you have a weak leg, ankle or foot, hold the cane opposite to the weak leg, ankle or foot. When going upstairs, take the first step with your strong leg. Then move the cane and the weak leg to that same step. When going downstairs, take the first step down with the cane and the weak leg. Then lower the strong leg to the same step.
Where can I get more information on foot-care? When shoes fit well and provide good ankle and foot support, your balance and stability improve and you are less likely to fall. It is important to wear proper footwear, but it is equally important to take care of your feet. If you have difficulty taking care of your feet, arrange for a friend, family member or professional (such as nurse/chiropodist/podiatrist) to help you. For more information about foot-care services in your community contact York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.
What is the best way to organize my medications? Taking 4 or more prescription drugs on a daily basis increases side effects and your risk of falling. If your pills are making you drowsy or dizzy your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage or change the medication. Visit the same pharmacy for your medications and visit one family doctor. If you visit more than one doctor, be sure each doctor is aware of all the medications you are taking. Write an up-to-date list of all the medications you are taking and keep it with you. A "dosette" or blister-pack for medications can be useful to organize your pill taking schedule and to keep track of whether you have taken your medication.
How can health-care providers help me if I am at risk for falling? If you have ever fallen, have walking and/or balance problems, and have needed medical attention after a fall then you should request a full fall evaluation. You may need a referral to a geriatrician, a doctor specializing in care of older adults. By talking with your doctor, he or she can assess your risk of falls by reviewing your history of falls and your medications, evaluating the way you walk, checking your heart rate, heart rhythm and blood pressure, examining your vision, and reviewing your use of canes/walkers.
Will physical activity and/or exercises reduce my risk of falling, and how will I know if it is safe for me to exercise? Physical activity and/or exercises will definitely reduce your risk of falling. Studies show doing strength and balance exercises,over a 10-week period of time, significantly improve bone, muscle, and neurological weaknesses. Check with your health care provider before you begin a physical activity program. What is the best way to provide a safe environment to reduce my risk of falling? Try to "fall-proof" your home as much as possible. The most obvious way to start is by eliminating things that might cause a fall. Remove small rugs and mats, particularly those that bunch up and slide. You might trip over them. In the bathroom use non-skid bath mats as well as anti-skid decals in your tub or shower. Remove clutter and clear objects that might trip you on the stairs and traffic areas. Don't forget about electrical or telephone cords. Keep them out of harm's way. Outside your home you should repair uneven walking surfaces, cracks or holes in walkways as soon as you can. Always make sure your home is well-lit with proper lighting. Nightlights are useful to help you navigate the hallway, stairs and bathroom at night. Many senior adults find it helpful to have their bathroom equipped with grab bars in the tub or shower, or special elevated devices on the toilet. One item you might not think about making safer in your home is you. Take your time and don't rush. Don't rush to the telephone. Don't rush when you are carrying something. Watch your pets — sometimes their desire to be with you might inadvertently cause them to become an obstacle that trips you.
What practical steps can I take to eat a nutritionally balanced diet so that my risk for falling may decrease? "Eat your vegetables." That's what we say to our children. Well, it's just as true for adults, particularly older adults. You need to maintain good nutrition by eating a balanced diet. A balanced diet will ensure you get sufficient amounts of Calcium and Vitamin D to keep your bones healthy and help prevent osteoporosis. Osteoporosis not only increases the likelihood of a fall, it increases the severity of it. Adequate hydration is important at all ages. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, drink 6-8 glasses (8oz) of fluids every day (3-4 of those glasses should be water). Our metabolism slows as we age, so it is a useful strategy to eat six small meals a day rather than the three larger ones we are used to. This helps maintain a more constant energy level and reduces the possibility of weakness, dizziness or tiredness that might result in a fall. Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide is a helpful resource. It is available from Health
For more information, please contact
|
|
