Home is where injury-related deaths occur

Article Submitted by Cedar Crest, an Erickson community in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. For more information, contact the Health Care Counselor at Renaissance Gardens by calling 973-831-3755.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), "Fifty-four percent of all injury-related deaths happen in the home." What's more, the NSC reports, "In the home, there is a fatal injury every 16 minutes and a disabling injury every 4 seconds."

Falls are the most menacing enemy for both men and women aged 65 years and older, taking, on average, 13,000 lives a year. Even more startling, the NSC reports, "Of those who survive a fall, up to 30% will suffer debilitating injuries that affect them the rest of their lives."

The news is worse for older Americans. According to the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "Among people aged 75 and older, victims of a fall are four to five times more likely to be admitted to a long-term care facility for a year or longer."

One of the best ways to make life easier and fight the statistics is to eliminate the risks. The CDC recommends:

• A medication review of the side effects and interactions of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
• An eye exam to check prescription glasses, poor depth perception, glaucoma, or cataracts.
• Elimination of fall hazards (small throw rugs, books, or shoes in walkways) and improvement of lighting at home.
• Regular exercise like Tai Chi to increase strength and balance.

If you find yourself feeling dizzy, woozy, or lightheaded, talk to your doctor. Sensations like these could lead to falls, or could be a sign of other conditions.

Cedar Crest is an Erickson community in Pompton Plains, New Jersey, that offers independent living alongside a continuum of care. Renaissance Gardens, the health care neighborhood at Cedar Crest, provides Respite Care, Short-Term Rehabilitation, Assisted Living, and Long-Term Care to people living inside and outside Cedar Crest. For more information, contact the Health Care Counselor at Renaissance Gardens by calling 973-831-3755.