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.