Our Research on Seniors by Bedford
Getting to know and understand our clients is the cornerstone of our business. Our seniors are our family, our teachers, our life experiences and our mentors. For many of us, our seniors have been our caregivers and the people who have looked after us, looked out for us and have shown us a special kind of love that can never be duplicated. That’s why Bedford has put in a lot of time and resources into understanding the needs, limitations and obstacles facing our Seniors today. That research has yeilded some very interesting results which we would like to share with you:
Fall Prevention by Bedford
Falls are the number 1 cause of injury to seniors in Canada.
There are steps you can take to help prevent them:
The most important factor in preventing falls is maintaining mobility. It helps you stay independent and live well. Staying active helps the body and mind immensely and a little goes a long way. Getting up from your chair or bed three times a day or walking for a total of 30 minutes can achieve the mental and physical benefits needed for a longer and healthier life. The maintenance of mobility improves the health of muscles, bones, heart, lungs, and digestion system. It also helps to improve memory, mood and sleep quality while reducing the risk and effects of chronic disease.
Studies show that the fear of falling, on its own, contributes greatly to falls. This fear can lead to a sedentary lifestyle that can result in weaker muscles and bones and therefore, makes you more susceptible to falling. It can also make us move tentatively and cause us anxiety which is the psychological effect that leads to a higher risk of falling. Many seniors who live alone or spend a lot of time alone have a heightened level of fear. Staying mobile and having a Bedford Medical Alert Device that can get you help when you need it, is a proven course of action to maintain peace of mind while staying active to help keep falls at bay.
Falls can be prevented
Here’s how:
- Take your time, don’t rush when walking or getting up
- Keep stairs and walkways free of clutter, ice or snow
- Use hand rails and grab bars to keep you steady on your feet
- Balance your body through good nutrition, hydration, and gentle stretching exercises
- Get your eye sight checked regularly
- Put your best foot forward in well-fitting, sturdy shoes
- Talk to your pharmacist or doctor as some medications may make you prone to dizziness and falling
- Light up your hallways, stairs, and walkways!
- Check your home for slipping and tripping hazards
- Ask for help if you are worried about falling
- Get a Bedford Medical Alert Device to monitor falls 24/7 and give you the peace of mind to get more active
