We often blog about the perils our elderly loved ones face when it comes to falls and fall related injuries. However, another group of dearly beloved that are at a particularly high risk of experiencing a fall are children.

According to statistics from safekids.org, in 2011 over 2.8 million children were treated in the emergency room for fall related injuries. Although a majority of falls happen at home, another place that experiences high volumes of fall-related injuries is the playground.

75 percent of all playground injuries are fall-related. This relates to more than 200,000 children being treated for playground fall-related injuries each year. According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 45% of these injuries are severe fractures.

Fortunately, with the right safety precautions in place, we can drastically lower the number of fall-related injuries our young loved ones experience when playing on the playground. The following are some great ways to help reduce that number and keep your loved ones safe from falls.

Dress Appropriately

Dress your children in properly fitting clothes and shoes. It is also smart to minimize the use of scarves, drawstrings and jewelry that can get caught or cause a child to trip. Finally make sure shoes are tied tightly.

Teach Respectful Play

It is important to teach your children how to play safely on the playground with other kids and to avoid play that involves pushing, shoving, tripping or crowding.

Check the Equipment

Check for broken steps, loose rungs and fasteners, rusting or any out of place objects. Unmaintained playground equipment greatly increases the risk of an injury. If the playground is in disrepair let your city parks and recreation department know and find an alternative.

Supervise Your Children

It’s always a good idea to keep an active eye on your children especially in playgrounds you have never been to. For younger children, shadow them on climbing toys and slides to help lower their risk of experiencing a fall.

Check the Surface

Finding a playground with a soft, shock-absorbing surface such as bark, rubber, sand or pea gravel will help minimize the chance of your child experiencing a fall-related injury.

When Possible, Use SmartCells Fall Protection Products

The line of SmartCells Fall Protection products helps prevent falls, as well as injuries from falls. The unique dual-stiffness structure of SmartCells, provides users with a stable standing surface that will not cause a balance impaired person to lose their balance, while at the same time provide significant cushioning if a fall does occur.

Comparative studies and research to date have yet to record any broken bones on a SmartCells product, and indicate a substantial reduction in other fall-related injuries such as contusions and skin tears.

SmartCells Fall Protection child safety mats combine effectiveness with style and quality, including features like a low profile height (1/2”) and molded-in beveled edges, which reduce tripping hazards.

SmartCells child safety mats are made of latex-free rubber that will not absorb liquids, which allows them to be easily cleaned.

SmartCells Fall Protection child safety mats are available in a variety of colors (Black, Light Brown, and Grey) and configurations ranging from standard sizes (2×3, 3×5 and 24×68), to build-your-own mats and custom flooring.

SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.

The leaves have turned colors and many have already fallen to the ground. Not only does this week mark the beginning of fall and end of summer, it also marks the 8^th annual falls prevention awareness week.

During this week-long event, senior centers, caregivers and companies all around the nation have joined forces with the National Council on Aging to help raise awareness of the danger of falls and importance of falls prevention for our elderly loved ones.

To support this effort, we have blogged about several topics regarding fall prevention this month; this week our topic is how to prevent falls around pets.

According to statistics from the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence, each year nearly 86,000 fall-related injuries involve a household pet.

Some may wonder, why have a pet if it could potentially increase one’s risk of falling? While a pet could potentially cause a fall, research suggests that pet ownership can be a good thing for the elderly. Many studies have found a link between pet ownership and reduced risk of heart disease.

There are several great ways to help prevent falls related to pets so you’re elderly loved one can continue to enjoy their furry companions.

• Attach a bell to the pet. This will help you know where the animal is at all times and prevent tripping over it.
• Many animals jump when excited, it is important to train the animal to refrain from jumping on people.
• Pets are great, but can create messes while eating or playing. Make sure to keep toys out of walkways and clean up messes when they happen.
• As we mentioned last week, going out-and-about can be troublesome for elderly as it is. When taking an animal outside it is good to know how they will act. This will prevent any surprises or potential fall hazards.
• Always keep control of your animal. It is helpful to use two hands when holding a leash to increase stability and control.
• Use SmartCells Fall Protection mats and flooring.

Not only are SmartCells fall protection products pet-friendly, they help prevent falls as well as prevent serious injury.

The unique SmartCells dual –stiffness technology provides stability for balance impaired persons and care givers, while at the same time providing life-saving cushioning to protect our loved ones when they fall.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats combine effectiveness with style and quality, including features like a low profile height (1/2”) and molded-in beveled edges which reduce tripping hazards and allow most wheeled objects to roll over the mat, without needing to move it out of the way.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats are available in a variety of colors (Black, Light Brown, and Grey) and configurations ranging from pre-sized mats (3×5 and 24×68) to build-your-own mats to fit custom-sized areas.

SmartCells Fall Protection flooring provides a cushioned sub-floor under selected commercial floor coverings.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats and flooring are made of latex-free rubber that will not absorb liquids, which reduces the risk of contamination and infection and allows them to be easily cleaned. Independent testing, using widely accepted protocols (ATSM F355 – 10a) indicates that SmartCells cushioning technology is 2 – 4 times more effective at attenuating impact forces than other products that are nearly twice as thick.

SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.

As you may recall from our blog last week, the entire month of September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month.

The pinnacle of the month long campaign against falls takes place on the fall equinox, September 23, 2015. This day marks the 8^th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day. To help support the National Council on Aging’s (NCOA) efforts in raising awareness for fall prevention, we have pledged to blog about different issues regarding fall prevention each week this month.

In the past we have blogged on many occasions regarding how to prevent falls by being aware of the physical issues that can affect the likelihood of experiencing a fall and also how to prevent falls in the home.

This week we are exploring how to prevent falls and fall-related injuries when you or your loved one is outside.

Knowing how to prevent a fall or fall-related injury can save your elderly loved one’s life.

According to statistics gathered by the Journal of Trauma, “Twenty to thirty percent of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries which greatly impact their independence and can lead to early death.”

In fact, in 2013 nearly 26,000 older adults died from unintentional fall-related injuries. Through awareness and preventative measures these numbers can be slashed.

Preventing falls outside is often a lot more difficult than preventing a fall in one’s own home. At home it is easier to make sure walkways are well-lit and cleared of clutter.

Following these tips from the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence will greatly minimize you or your loved one’s risk of experiencing a fall abroad.

Be a Picky Walker

If at all possible, try to only walk during times of the day where it will be easy to see where you’re going. Avoid going abroad in stormy weather, especially rain, snow or fog. The reduced visibility and traction increase the chance of a fall exponentially.

While we’re on the subject, you should also be picky of the route you take. Be sure to avoid sidewalks that have cracks, holes, are off-camber or any other irregularities.

Malls and other well maintained areas are great places to walk and get physical activity. Many malls have walking programs designed specifically for seniors to safely get exercise.

Strength in Numbers

Always make sure you travel in a group. When out and about, the more sets of eyes, the better. Walking companions can warn each other about potential hazards. In case of an emergency, having an activity companion can lessen the severity of the situation.

Preparation. Preparation. Preparation.

From planning the route to making sure one’s attire is properly suited for the situation reducing one’s risk of experiencing a fall abroad takes a lot of preparation. Make sure you or your loved one is wearing properly fitting shoes with good traction soles.

It may sound contradictory, but knowing how to fall safely can greatly reduce one’s risk of a fall-related injury. Read our blog about how to fall safely here.

Stay tuned for next week’s blog which will be discussing falls prevention around pets.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) recently announced that the 8^th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day will take place on September 23.

Falls Prevention Awareness Day, which coincides with the 2015 fall equinox, was initially started in 2008 by the NCOA as an effort to increase awareness of falls amongst the elderly.

That first year, only 11 states participated in the event. According to the NCOA, the event has since grown in participation to include 48 states and the District of Columbia.

Each year the NCOA focuses on a central fall-related theme, in 2015 the theme is Take a Stand to Prevent Falls. In the next couple weeks, we will be blogging on several topics regarding how to prevent falls and fall-related injuries for your elderly loved ones.

The statistics are staggering, according to the NCOA, every 15 seconds an elderly loved one is seen in the Emergency Room due to fall related injuries. With numbers like these implementing protocols and strategies to prevent falls and fall-related injuries can be lifesaving.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats and flooring help prevent falls as well as prevent serious injury. The unique SmartCells dual –stiffness technology provides stability for balance impaired persons and care givers, while at the same time providing life-saving cushioning to protect our loved ones when they fall.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats combine effectiveness with style and quality, including features like a low profile height (1/2”) and molded-in beveled edges which reduce tripping hazards and allow most wheeled objects to roll over the mat, without needing to move it out of the way.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats are available in a variety of colors (Black, Light Brown, and Grey) and configurations ranging from pre-sized mats (3×5 and 24×68) to build-your-own mats to fit custom-sized areas.

SmartCells Fall Protection flooring provides a cushioned sub-floor under selected commercial floor coverings.

SmartCells Fall Protection mats and flooring are made of latex-free rubber that will not absorb liquids, which reduces the risk of contamination and infection and allows them to be easily cleaned. Independent testing, using widely accepted protocols (ATSM F355 – 10a) indicates that SmartCells cushioning technology is 2 – 4 times more effective at attenuating impact forces than other products that are nearly twice as thick.

SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.

Last week the Old Farmers’ Almanac released its forecast predictions for the upcoming winter. The 224-year-old publication predicts that after this long hot summer much of the United States will endure a cold winter with above normal snowfall.

According to the almanac’s website, the publication uses a “secret” formula for forecasting that includes sunspots, tides, planetary positions, climatology and meteorology.

Although the “Old Farmers’ Almanac” and rival publication “The Farmers’ Almanac” are some of the oldest periodicals in the United States, many meteorologists are skeptics regarding the accuracy of predictions made by them.

Despite the questionable accuracy of winter weather predictions, the combination of increased precipitation (rain or snow) and fallen leaves makes fall and winter particularly dangerous seasons for falls for our vulnerable elderly loved ones.

You may be thinking “its only August, why are they already talking about winter fall prevention?”

The fact of matter is that it is never too early to take preventative measures regarding fall prevention. The following tips will not only help reduce your elderly loved ones chances of experiencing a fall but also reduce their chances of experiencing an injury in case they do happen to slip.

Exercise

The old adage is true; if you don’t use it you lose it. While the weather is still good it is a great time to keep your elderly loved one active. Taking walks is a great way to strengthen the muscles needed to keep you upright. Balance exercises are another great way to reduce the risk of a fall.

Get a Check Up

There are many physical factors that can affect ones likelihood of experiencing a fall. Scheduling a seasonal check up will help ensure your loved one is healthy and well prepared for the coming season. Make sure the doctor checks eyesight, hearing, feet and bone strength, as these are the most likely culprits for increased fall risks.

Fix Walkways

Whether it is inside or outside, make sure all walkways your elderly loved one normally uses are in good repair, well lit and free of clutter. Fix any cracks, uneven surfaces and loose carpet to help lower the chance of a fall.

Practice Falling

This may sound funny but knowing how to safely fall will reduce your loved ones chance of experiencing an injury in the off chance that they do fall. You may want to check out this blog for more tips regarding safe falling practices.

Use SmartCells Fall Protection Products

SmartCells fall protection mats and flooring employ a unique dual-stiffness technology that provides a stable, safe surface for standing, walking, wheeling and transferring, while at the same time protects with significant cushioning in case of a slip or fall.

SmartCells fall-protection mats are safe and elegant. They combine style and quality with molded-in beveled edges and allow wheeled objects to easily roll over them.

SmartCells fall protection mats are constructed of material that will not absorb liquid offering a practical solution to infection control issues. SmartCells fall-protection flooring acts as an underlayment for many choices of standard floor covering, so you won’t even know it’s there, until a fall occurs.

SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.

Have you ever heard someone joke about having a ‘senior moment’?

Since many elderly loved ones suffer from memory loss, people often believe memory loss and illnesses like dementia are a part of aging. While it is true that dementia is most common amongst the elderly, it is NOT considered a normal part of aging.

Dementia is a chronic, progressive syndrome that is caused by a number of brain illnesses. Like any illness, there are several different forms of dementia with the most common being: Vascular (after a stroke), Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly 47.5 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia. Furthermore, according to statistics, people who suffer from dementia fall 60% more frequently than other adults.

Due to the increased risk of falls and other side effects of dementia, sufferers often experience little or no independence. This decrease in independence can cause people suffering with dementia to easily become frustrated and greatly affects their well-being.

To help combat this, here are some helpful tips from Go4Life:

• Put frequently used items in a common place that is easily accessible by the loved one who suffers from dementia
• Strategically place furniture to maximize open area and refrain from moving furniture after that
• Keep walkways free of clutter
• Have their eyes and ears checked frequently
• Make sure you know about all side effects associated with your loved ones medications
• Keep carpet secured and use non-slip rugs
• Use SmartCells Fall Protection

SmartCells fall protection mats and flooring employ a unique dual-stiffness technology that provides a stable, safe surface for standing, walking, wheeling and transferring, while at the same time protects with significant cushioning in case of a slip or fall.

SmartCells fall-protection mats are safe and elegant. They combine style and quality with molded-in beveled edges and allow wheeled objects to easily roll over them.

SmartCells fall protection mats are constructed of material that will not absorb liquid offering a practical solution to infection control issues. SmartCells fall-protection flooring acts as an underlayment for many choices of standard floor covering, so you won’t even know it’s there, until a fall occurs.

SmartCells Fall Protection: We’ll be there when you can’t be.