As you age, it becomes easier to lose your balance. Unfortunately for senior citizens, falls are not only common, but they’re also a leading cause of hospitalizations. To help you avoid falls and prevent a hospital stay or rehabilitation program from becoming necessary, Wolcott View Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center in New Haven County, CT, offers their best advice.

Follow these four tips to avoid dangerous falls:

• Maintain Fitness: Keeping fit is one of the best ways to prevent all kinds of accidents and health problems. For seniors, low-impact exercise, such as water aerobics, is a good way to keep bodies strong and flexible without straining joints. Staying physically active is the single best way to avoid injuries that will require a rehabilitation program.
• Sharp Ears & Eyes: Frequent hearing and vision checks are more important the older you get. Sharp eyes will help you find something to grab if you slip. Since the inner ear is key to maintaining balance, ear problems can make you less sure on your feet. If you are prescribed glasses or hearing aids, always wear them according to the doctor’s instructions.
• Install Safety Equipment: Install handrails, non-slip bathroom floor pads, and non-slip carpets in your home. Avoid area rugs, which are easy to trip on. By fitting your living space with some basic safety equipment, the chance of sustaining an injury that requires a rehabilitation program or hospital stay can be reduced substantially.
• Beware of Pets: Pets are a great way to have some extra companionship as you age, but they can also be tripping hazards. Dogs especially tend to follow their loved ones around very closely, so if there are pets in the house, be extra mindful of where they are at all times.

If you do end up taking a fall, a rehabilitation program at CT’s Wolcott View Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center can get you on your feet again. Their medical experts oversee a state-of-the-art, family-owned and -operated nursing facility and rehab center, with compassionate care that’s personalized for each resident’s needs. To learn more, call them at (203) 879-8066 or visit them online.