FALLING ... ARE YOU AT RISK? 3 Telltale Signs
You have a chronic condition . Did you know that more than 80% of older adults have a chronic health condition? Diabetes and arthritis, particularly when poorly managed, can increase the likelihood of having a fall. Prior stroke also puts a person at risk, and taking more than three prescription medications will make a fall more likely. Your doctor can conduct a full fall risk assessment. If you are at risk, don’t wait until after a fall to get help. Physical therapists can help you regain your balance and improve your lower body strength to make a fall less likely. A physical therapist will evaluate your needs and design a program that will give you greater strength, stability, and self-confidence. They may also be able to make recommendations to help you prevent tumbles at home, like installing railings, removing area rugs, and improving lighting. Whether you’ve previously fallen or are just concerned about the effects of aging, give Horizon PT a call today. We can customize treatment to help you stay safe and maintain your independence.
Every year people fall, including millions of people aged 65 or older. In fact, one in four older adults fall each year, and falling once doubles your chances of falling again. Annually, falls cause 95% of hip fractures, many traumatic brain injuries, and 800,000 hospitalizations. Worse, fall rates among older adults have been climbing, putting more people in danger. Until they fall, most people don’t consider themselves at risk — so you should know the warning signs. Here are three of the top indications that a fall is likely. You have trouble walking or getting up. Struggling to get out of a chair or needing support to do so, is a sign of weakness that can later lead to falls. Similarly, if you regularly use furniture, walls, or a mobility device for support while walking, it’s an indication that you are at increased risk of falling. You experience dizziness or balance problems. People who get dizzy or experience vertigo after standing are more likely to lose their balance and fall. We all occasionally stumble, so the ability to recover is essential to fall prevention. If you struggle with uneven or slick walking surfaces, consider it a warning sign.
Have a Laugh
Chocolate Pecan Fondue
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
This Valentine’s Day, forget the entree! Surprise your honey with a delicious chocolate treat!
Ingredients
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1/2 cup half-and-half cream
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1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp honey
Fresh fruit of your choice
9 oz semisweet chocolate, broken into pieces 1/4 cup pecans, finely chopped
Shortbread cookies Large marshmallows
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Directions
1. In a sturdy saucepan over low heat, combine cream and honey. Stir until mixed thoroughly and heat until warm. 2. Add in chocolate, stirring until melted. 3. Stir in pecans and vanilla.
4. Transfer to a fondue pot or a slow cooker to keep warm. 5. Serve with fruit, cookies, and marshmallows of your choice.
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