Fall risks

Photo by Nic Low

The Holiday season seemed to race by in a flash! School is back in and the first snow of the season recently arrived. In many areas, there exists the possibility of ice on walkways over the next couple of months, and it seems the perfect time to highlight the risk of falling.

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The Holiday season seemed to race by in a flash! School is back in and the first snow of the season recently arrived. In many areas, there exists the possibility of ice on walkways over the next couple of months, and it seems the perfect time to highlight the risk of falling. The greater the number of risk factors a person has, the more likely for a fall, so be sure to take care of your health and minimize risks when you can. Vitamin D deficiency, medications, lower body weakness, reduced vision, and home hazards can increase the risk of a fall. Links below provide more detailed information regarding these risks. Vitamin D deficiency occurs frequently during the winter months because many people spend more time inside. The article from the National Institutes of Health below highlights the recommended dietary allowance for each age category and good sources of vitamin D. Just be sure to follow guidelines and doctor recommendations because vitamin D is toxic at high levels, and it is possible to overdo a good thing! Stay safe and warm and wishing you a wonderful day!

References:
National Council on Aging
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Institutes of Health