Don’t Fall!
If you’ve had a stroke, you have a 70% chance of falling!
Statistics show that 70% of stroke survivors have a fall within the first 6 months after their stroke. And a stroke survivor is 4 x as likely to fracture a hip in a fall than a person of the same age who hasn’t suffered a stroke.
Stroke survivors who break a hip are at significant risk to:
- end all progress toward recovery
- end the ability to walk
- increase fear of walking
- become confined to a wheelchair
- develop a blood clot
- develop lung and/or urinary infections
I’m not trying to scare you, but…….ok, I AM trying to scare you!
Falling is dangerous, so DON’T let it happen!
Here are some ways to avoid falling:
- Have your vision checked frequently, and use corrective lenses if prescribed
- Wear sturdy shoes every time you walk (NO slippers, filp-flops, socks, or barefoot)
- Make sure you have good lighting in your home (and night-lights)
- Clear all rugs that can slide or move
- Clear away any tripping hazard (extension cords, clutter, etc)
- Consider any small pets you have as tripping hazards
- Have your doctor review your medications, to eliminate any potential drugs or drug interactions that could cause dizziness or decreased balance
- Exercise frequently – strong muscles and bones help prevent falls and injury
- Install grab bars in the bathroom
- Use a shower/tub seat or bench
- Don’t lock the bathroom door, in case you need help
- Think about wearing protective hip pads. Many companies make padding that you can wear inside your clothing to prevent hip fractures if you fall.