Winter can be dangerous for osteoporosis
Patients who buy Canadian Actonel for osteoporosis need to protect themselves from accidental falls in the winter.
Patients who buy Canadian Actonel for osteoporosis need to protect themselves from accidental falls in the winter. Seniors may be especially vulnerable because of the effects of aging on bodily functions needed to maintain balance, such as the reflexes, muscle strength and equilibrium.
"As we age, our eardrums often thicken and the bones of the middle ear and other structures are affected," said exercise physiologist Mike Ross of Loyola University Health System. "It often becomes increasingly difficult to maintain balance."
Every year, one-third of adults aged 65 years or older has an accidental fall, which is the leading injury-related cause of death for this age group, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Ross, who teaches balance classes, offers people tips on protecting themselves in the winter.
Around the house, it is important to make sure railings are sturdy enough to support an accidental slip, and that a shovel and salt are ready to be spread on an icy sidewalk. The latter should not be kept in a distant garage.
In case of an emergency outside the house, people should carry cell phones at all times, be ready to ask someone for assistance in walking in slippery areas and have a plan of action should a fall happen. It is also important to pace oneself and make sure that one's shoes have proper traction.
One more tip to help prevent accidental slips and falls is maintaining strength in the leg muscles through exercise, Ross said.
|
