In our last blog, “Are You at Risk of a Fall?”, we addressed factors that contributed to an increased risk of falls. As June is seniors month, there is no better time than now to discuss the importance of Toronto seniors leading an active and healthy life to prevent falls.
At Bedford Medical Alert, we know how hard it can be to be active as a senior, especially after falling at home. According to a study done by the University of Alberta, older adults may lose confidence to move around with confidence once they have experienced a fall. As the ice melts and the sun comes out, it is important for Toronto seniors to get active, strengthen their muscles, improve flexibility, and maintain steady balance. Being less active can adversely affect an older adult’s health, independence, and increase risk of future falls.
How to Stay Active After a Fall
- Talk to your doctor to find out the best activities for you
- Do activities you enjoy- walking in the park, aquatics, and dancing are great starts.
- Take advantage of Toronto’s many senior centers and public spaces
- Stay social
- Reduce risk of falling by removing clutter from around the house and tying down rugs
- Get a medical alert that can cover you around the city of Toronto- such as Bedford Medical Alert’s Go Anywhere Canada pendant, with GPS technology to cover you virtually anywhere in Canada
- Attend the many seniors events going on across the city in the month of June to learn more
Resources
http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/factsheet_olderadults/en/
https://nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseandphysicalactivityhowtostayactive/makeexerciseahabit/01.html
https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/hc-sc/migration/hc-sc/hl-vs/alt_formats/pdf/pubs/seniors-aines/senior-guide-aines-eng.pdf
Author: Julia Dodig
