Approximately 30 per cent of older adults fall at lease once each year.
Unfortunately, an injury, such as a fracture or sprain, will occur in 50 per cent of those falls. This, in turn, can result in a new disability or loss of independence.
The good news is many falls can be prevented. The Physiotherapy Association of BC has put together a few tips to help keep British Columbia's seniors on their feet and moving for life:
• Daily physical activity will help to improve your posture, muscle strength and balance. Enroll in a Tai Chi, yoga or supervised exercise program. Your physiotherapist will recommend therapeutic exercise that's right for you.
• Have an annual physical assessment with your physiotherapist to detect impairments to your balance. Also, ensure you visit your doctor for an annual physical and have your vision and hearing checked to help you keep tuned-in as you move around.
• Wear a good pair of lace-up shoes that will support your feet and ankles, and avoid high heels and slippers because they can increase your risk of slipping and losing balance.
• Aids, such as canes or walkers are important to help maintain balance both inside and outside your home. View them as tools to help you keep active, not as signs of weakness.
To learn more about how physiotherapists keep British Columbians moving for life, visit movingforlife.ca.