Senior Citizens Can Reduce Fall Risks with Improved Foot Health

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More than 30% of Americans over 65 experiences fall each year, and that percentage increases proportionally with age. The numbers are scary. Among senior citizens:

  • Falls account for 25% of all hospital admissions.

  • 40% of all nursing home admissions are the result of a fall.

  • 40% of patients admitted for treatment after a fall never fully return to their formerly independent lives.

Many people enjoy simple and complete recoveries after a fall, but serious complications are possible:

  • Annually, nearly 10,000 senior citizens die after falls. More people 65 and older die as a result of falls than die in car accidents each year.

  • The average hospital stay for an elderly patient who has fallen is almost twice as long than those of seniors who are admitted for any other reason. Opportunistic infections by hospital-based bacteria make inpatient stays dangerous for any patient, and more so for those who have weakened immune systems.

  • One out of every 200 falls in people aged 65 to 69 results in a hip fracture.

  • One fall leads to another. More than half of seniors who fall will fall again within six months.

  • For many seniors, the repercussions of a fall have profound negative effects on independent living.

Numerous factors can lead to a fall. People stumble, slip, trip, and get knocked down accidentally. Inner ear infections, vertigo, and other health issues can affect your sense of balance and increase the odds of a fall. It must be noted, however, that foot health and strength play a large role in preventing falls. Older people with frequent or chronic foot pain fall more frequently their peers who enjoy good podiatric health.

Following are some simple recommendations to lower your risk of falls:

  • Clean up every day. Keep your living space tidy and uncluttered and remove any potential tripping hazards from the floor.

  • Don't go barefoot inside, and never walk in socks. Always wear rubber-soled slippers or shoes, especially on stairs.

  • Wear sensible shoes every day. High heels are a real health risk for older people. The best shoes for your feet are comfortable with wide, low heels. Choose shoes that fit well and provide good arch support and cushioning.

  • Excess weight stresses the feet. Maintaining a healthy BMI will have a positive effect on all aspects of your wellbeing, including foot health.

  • Try a gentle yoga class to improve balance.

  • Visit the podiatrist for regular examinations, especially if you have diabetes. This will maximize foot health, ensuring that changes and concerns are addressed promptly.

Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.