Don’t Take the Fall
Autumn is on the way, and September is here. This month, we are highlighting Falls Prevention Awareness Month. It is the time when we educate our patients on the risks of falls and the increased risk for patients 65 and older. If you are a senior citizen or caring for a senior loved one, we hope you will follow along during this blog post. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the likelihood of falling again doubles after the first fall.
The doctors at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group are here to help you and your family stay safe. It starts by sharing more facts about falls, starting with the risk that occurs at home. Today we are sharing ways to make changes in your home to keep you from experiencing an injury.
Fix up your floors
Do you feel good about the state of your floors? We have one word for you to consider: rugs. If your rugs are slippery and lack grips, there is a risk of a slip. Either switch to a more secure rug or try another way to add color and warmth to your floor.
Brighten your day
We could all use a bit more lighting at home. Use natural light during the day by opening blinds and curtains. When the sun sets, bring out the nightlights and other lighting options. Add more lighting to the bathroom, hallway, kitchen, and bedrooms. If you or your loved one needs to move around the house for a bathroom break or midnight snack, prioritize safety.
Add calm to the clutter
Is there a clear pathway to the bathroom? How about the kitchen? If there are a few things that could require additional navigation, it’s time to clear the clutter. Your loved one may have a cane or even a walker. Make the walk a safe journey for your family and friends. We encourage you to move items to another room or consider them for donation.
We are here to help. If you have an injury after a fall, such as an ankle sprain or a fracture, don’t delay treatment. Remember to call a medical professional every time you fall — regardless of whether you think you have an injury.
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.
