ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for people ages 65 and older in the United States, according to the CDC. One in four older adults in that age group report falling every year, which can lead to severe injuries or death.
Dr. Hunter Rafoth, a sports medicine physician with Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute, said falls can cause injuries that are difficult to recover from.
“Broken shoulders, broken arms, broken wrists, broken hips, God forbid, those are, are tough injuries to recover from,” Rafoth said.
Walk regularly and build muscle
Rafoth said the first way to prevent falls is to walk regularly. Adding resistance exercises to a daily routine can also help build and maintain muscle mass.
Work on balance
Activities like yoga and pilates can help improve balance. Walking on a soft, shifting surface such as sand can increase muscle work and burn more calories while being gentle on joints.
Wear supportive shoes
Rafoth said supportive shoes are important, and cautioned against wearing flip flops…