Health Tip: Reduce Your Risk of Falling

Seniors should keep at least one hand free

(HealthDay News) -- Elderly people may be at greater risk of falling, but there are things seniors can do to help reduce their risk of taking a spill.

The Cleveland Clinic offers these suggestions:

  • Keep at least one hand free while walking. Use a backpack or fanny pack to carry things when possible.
  • While you walk, swing your arms from front to back and carefully lift your feet completely off the ground with each stride.
  • Make a wide arc when turning, rather than trying to turn sharply.
  • Avoid doing other things while you walk.
  • When standing, keep your feet shoulder-width apart; when changing positions, move slowly and pay attention to your movements.

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