Stay safe: Don’t fall into this fall season

I love the fall season and one of my favorite parts of this season is watching the leaves change colors. What starts out as beautiful can turn into a hazard when those bright colored leaves fall to the ground.

People tend to think that mostly older people suffer falls but really anyone can get injured in a fall at any time. Even prime-conditioned athletes in peak physical form sometimes suffer season-ending non-contact injuries from an unlucky step, slip, and fall. As a family caregiver, I experienced the impact that a fall my mother suffered, in which she broke her shoulder. It never healed properly and her mobility was permanently limited in that arm. Falls can lead to other complications: surgeries, anesthesia risks, lengthy rehabilitation, all which can impact cognitive health.

I suffered a fall myself a few years ago during the autumn season. I got the wind knocked out of me and a sore back, but fortunately avoided a more serious injury. Atlanta is known as a city of trees, but it’s not just the leaves that are the culprit. Acorns and other tree debris fall to the ground and get covered up by a blanket of leaves. Imagine trying to walk on marbles covered up by leaves: that’s what it feels like sometimes walking the dog in my neighborhood. You can see how it looks in the photo above with my dog Murphy.

Caregivers should take extra precautions to keep their elder loved ones safe while still getting to enjoy the outdoors.

• Clear the walkways around your property: I keep the broom handy and do a quick daily brush.
• Proper footwear: Sneakers or boots with firm soles and low heels can help with stability and to crush leaf debris before it becomes a slipping hazard. Don’t just assume all sneakers are fine; check those soles.
• Walk during the daytime. Sight is your friend when walking over a leaf-strewn sidewalk. I’ve adjusted my schedule to take the dog out for a walk a bit earlier just as the sun begins to set so I can take advantage of the remaining light.
• Offer a helping hand. My father suffered falls in the memory care center because he was allowed to wander around unsteadily without an aide assisting him. Assistive devices like canes, walking sticks, and walkers can also help.
• If a loved one with dementia suffers a fall, extra care is needed to monitor for symptoms. They may not be able to clearly communicate pain or other issues. Beyond physical signs of injury, look for changes in mood, appetite, and sleep patterns.

With common sense planning, you and your loved ones can safely enjoy the fall season.