Your retirement is here! It’s time for travel, hiking, fishing, gardening, golf, and whatever else your ideal golden years bring. The last thing you want is an unexpected setback, like an accidental fall.
According to the National Institute on Aging, the risk of falling—and fall-related problems—rises with age. In fact, more than one in four people aged 65 or older fall each year.
Statistics show that the rate of fall-related injury and death is even higher in northern Arizona, where we deal with a greater number of specific risk factors such as hills, unpaved streets and trails, historic homes with wood floors and staircases, and icy streets and sidewalks in the colder months.
While it’s tempting to give in to the fear of falling by avoiding activities such as shopping, walking, or socializing, it’s important to stay active to keep strong and healthy. There are many simple things you can do to decrease your risk of an unexpected fall.