That slow, shuffling walk you’ve noticed in your loved one isn’t just a typical sign of getting older; it’s often a red flag for underlying health issues. A shuffling gait, where feet seem to drag or slide rather than lift, can stem from neurological conditions, muscle weakness, medication side effects, or other treatable causes. This article reveals the 10 most common reasons…
Simple exercises reduce fall risk in seniors More than 1 in 4 older adults falls each year, often resulting in serious injuries that cause loss of independence and mobility. Doing fall prevention exercises regularly reduces the risk of falls by specifically strengthening key muscles and joints to improve balance. We found a helpful free video from two physical therapists that teaches how…
Be aware of common medications that cause falls Falls are a major reason for seniors to lose independence and mobility. More than 1 in 4 older adults falls each year, often causing serious injury. To reduce your older adult’s fall risk, regular medication reviews are essential. That’s because many commonly used drugs are associated with an increase in fall risk. Geriatrician Dr.…
Staying active is crucial for seniors who use walkers, not just for mobility, but for maintaining strength and preventing falls. But finding safe, practical exercises can feel challenging. The good news? With the proper support, a walker can become a fantastic tool for improving balance and confidence. Here are five gentle (physical therapist-approved) exercises designed specifically for walker users to build stability…
Using a walker correctly doesn’t come naturally Many older adults use a folding walker to help them move around more safely and independently. But learning how to use a walker correctly takes some practice – the movements aren’t always intuitive. And more importantly, using a walker incorrectly can actually increase fall risk or body aches. We explain how to adjust a walker…
For seniors, independence and safety are both important Preventing falls is an effective way to help seniors stay independent longer. Falls cause serious injuries like hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries – all of which lead to a decrease in abilities. With more than 1 in 4 seniors falling each year, simple fall prevention tips can make a big difference in…
Balance exercises for seniors preserve independence Balance training is essential for helping older adults reduce their fall risk. This is important because falls are a leading cause of loss of independence or the need to move to assisted living. We found a free 12 minute video that helps seniors improve their balance with 2 useful balance exercises for seniors to do at…
If your older adult has recently taken a fall, you’re probably worried about what to do next. TheKey (formerly, Home Care Assistance) shares 5 steps to take to reduce the chances that they’ll fall again. Prevent additional senior falls with recovery tips Every year, about 3 million older adults suffer a fall that’s bad enough to land them in the emergency room. …
Helping seniors stay independent can be challenging, especially if your older adult won’t consider a mobility device that keeps them safer and helps them get around. California Mobility shares tips for talking about aging in a compassionate way and 3 common mobility devices that increase safety and ease. Seniors often need help moving around and mobility devices like canes or walkers…
Regular home safety check-ups keep seniors safe Spring is a great time to take a fresh look at your older adult’s home to make sure it’s as safe as possible. Hazards add up over time and increase the risk of falls or accidents – a top reason for seniors to lose mobility or decline in health. Regular home safety check-ups reduce fall…
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