Fall Prevention Week takes place September 22nd through the 26th, bringing awareness to the commonality and preventability of falls among seniors. Each year, more than one in four adults experiences a serious fall, yet over half of these incidents go unreported to a doctor.
At The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, we know the importance of preventing falls in older adults. From our on-campus wellness programs and fitness center to personalized health services, we make senior safety a priority. Here are some essential things to keep in mind, such as common causes of falls, balance exercises, and the community services we offer our residents.
What Is a Fall Risk?
At The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, we understand how frightening a fall can be and how its lasting effects may bring permanent changes to a senior’s life. Understanding what a fall risk is can help prevent future falls from happening.
Common Causes of Falls Among Older Adults
A few of the most common causes of a fall include:
- Age-Related Physical Changes: Decreased muscle mass, decreased strength, balance challenges, or changes in vision
- Medication Side Effects: Dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, or impaired balance
- Medical Conditions or Cognitive Disorders: Diabetes, arthritis, some vascular diseases, Dementia, Parkinson’s, or vertigo
- Home Hazards: Poor lighting, throw rugs, pets, clutter, unsafe stairways, uneven flooring, or bathroom hazards
- Fall History: Previous history of falls can increase the likelihood of more falls
Physical Wellness and Fall Prevention Exercises
While it might not always be possible to prevent a fall, strength and balance exercises can help reduce the risk of falling. Below, we share some balance exercises from Johns Hopkins Medicine to avoid falls.
4 Balance Exercises to Help Prevent a Fall
When you begin, stand near a sturdy table or kitchen counter for support. Make sure there is someone nearby before practicing these exercises.
- 1. Feet Apart: Stand with your eyes open and your feet about shoulder-width apart. Hold for 10 seconds and work your way up to 30 seconds. Once you can do this firmly with minimal swaying, you can move on to the next exercise.
- 2. Feet Together: Stand with your eyes open and your feet together. Hold for 10 seconds and work your way up to 30 seconds. Progress once you can maintain balance with little sway.
- 3. One Foot: Stand with your eyes open and balance on one foot. Hold for 10 seconds and work your way up to 30 seconds. Switch to the other foot and repeat.
- 4. Eyes Closed: If you’re able to do the first three exercises safely and with minimal support, try one of them with your eyes closed. Hold for 10 seconds and work your way up to 30 seconds.
Additional Steps to Prevent Falls:
Make sure to talk to your doctor if you have pain or discomfort while performing any of these balance exercises, as they are meant to help strengthen muscles and prevent future falls—not cause pain.
- Talk to your doctor about any changes in medication or exercise routines
- Report any falls to your doctor, even if they seem minor
- Analyze fall risks in your apartment and remove hazards like clutter, loose rugs, or poor lighting
- Schedule regular vision and hearing checkups to catch changes early
- Wear supportive, non-slip footwear instead of slippers or socks on smooth floors
- Install grab bars and handrails in key areas such as bathrooms and stairways
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid overreaching or using unstable furniture for support
- Stay active with strength and balance exercises to maintain mobility and confidence
Community Resources and Support
Fall Prevention Week is a time to focus on what could be a fall risk and how to better prevent falls. Our team at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor is fully prepared to support residents through any health challenges, both current and future, ensuring peace of mind for residents and their families. By emphasizing senior safety, we have everything a resident could need:
- Fully Equipped Fitness Center: A variety of classes are available, focusing on mobility, strength, and overall wellness.
- On-Site Full-Service Health Clinic: Convenient access to primary care physicians and visiting specialists ensures residents can stay on top of their health without leaving the community.
- Skilled Clinical Team: Our trained professionals use a range of innovative technologies to ensure our residents are receiving the best possible care. Residents also benefit from on-site physical and occupational therapy services tailored to seniors.
- Emergency Response Systems: Around-the-clock staff availability and backup power systems help ensure safety and peace of mind in any situation.
At The Atrium at Navesink Harbor, we’re dedicated to senior safety and wellness—not just during Fall Prevention Week.
Looking for more information? Contact us today or schedule a visit to tour our beautiful campus at The Atrium at Navesink Harbor.
