INSURANCE

Q: My mother seems to be avoiding activities she used to enjoy because her balance is not what it used to be. Do you have any thoughts on this?

A:

It sounds like your mother may be worried about falling. Falls are the number one cause of injury, hospital visits due to trauma, and death from an injury among people age 65 and older. It is estimated that one in three older adults falls each year. While falls are a serious concern for seniors, many are preventable.

Her first step should be to share her concerns with her physician. She should ask her doctor to review her medications to make sure they are not contributing to her balance issues. A vision exam may be needed, too. Ask whether a walker or cane is warranted. Her physician may recommend some regular exercise focusing on strength, balance and gait to help minimize fall risks. Many senior centers and the Silver Sneakers program that is a part of many Medicare Advantage Plans offer free access to Tai Chi classes, strength training at local gyms, and walking programs geared to those with balance issues. You and your mother should look into ways to make her home safer as well. Remove clutter and tripping hazards, especially clutter on or near steps. Make sure she has bright lighting throughout her home, including exterior lighting. A bedside phone within arm’s reach is always a good idea. Make simple home modifications including painting outside steps with non-slip paint and installing secure handrails to help steady her when she’s looking for her keys. Grab bars are a must in the tub or shower.

Many senior centers have experts whose job is to assess a home environment and identify hazards. If your senior center does not offer an assessment program, consider hiring an occupational therapist to visit her home and provide an assessment.

Finally, please encourage your mother to continue to do the things she enjoys. Performing physical activities will actually help her stay independent, as your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active. Social activities are also good for her overall health. Just do it safely.

If you have insurance questions, please give me a call at 440-255-5700 or email me at Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com I will be happy to help you.

Laura Mutsko Mutsko Insurance Services, LLC 6982 Spinach Drive, Mentor, OH 44060 440-255-5700 www.mutskoinsurance.com