Avoid Disaster! Expert Gives Life-Saving Tips To Prevent Falls, Fractures In Elderly People

As people age, their bones become more fragile, significantly increasing the risk of fractures from even minor accidents.

Dr. Shrujal Shah, a leading orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon, has issued an urgent warning to individuals aged 60 to 100, highlighting practical steps to prevent life-threatening injuries caused by falls.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that according to Dr. Shah, the key to avoiding fractures lies in vigilance: “Be careful, be careful, and be careful again.

” This threefold mantra underpins a series of critical recommendations designed to safeguard the elderly from accidental injuries, especially within the home—a common site for devastating falls.

Key Preventive Measures for the Elderly:

1. Avoid Dangerous Reaches: Never stand on chairs or stools, no matter how low, to retrieve items.
2. Steer Clear of Slippery Surfaces: Refrain from going out on rainy days and ensure bathroom floors remain dry.
3. Bathroom Safety Is Paramount:
   • Avoid wearing underwear in slippery areas; return to a dry, seated space to dress comfortably.
   • Use a commode with a hand rest for stability.
   • Install non-slip flooring in bathrooms.
4. Nighttime Precautions: Always sit on the bed for 3-4 minutes after waking, turn on a light, and avoid rushing.
5. Declutter and Light Up: Keep floors clear and well-lit, especially at night, to minimize tripping hazards.
6. Emergency Preparedness: Keep toilet doors unlocked or install an alarm bell for emergencies.

Dr. Shah also emphasizes lifestyle choices that contribute to healthier bones and a lower risk of fractures.

Regular exercise, weight management, and a calcium-rich diet—including dairy, soy, and bananas—are vital. Additionally, sunlight exposure boosts vitamin D levels, essential for calcium absorption and bone strength.

“Remember,” Dr. Shah cautions, “one fall can cost you ten years of life due to the damage it inflicts on bones and muscles. The best cure is prevention.”

This invaluable advice is a lifeline for the elderly and their families. Share these tips with the seniors you care about to help them live safer, healthier lives.

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