Feeling scared about falling is normal after you've taken a tumble or had a serious accident. Even if you haven't fallen recently, it can still be a scary thought to fall and injure yourself.
The good news is that there is a way to manage your fear of falling so that you can continue to enjoy the activities you love without constant anxiety!
Keep reading to better understand your fear of falling, what causes falls, and how to start overcoming it!
What Happens After a Fall?
Beyond the physical injuries, there are mental affects that follow too. It's common to develop anxiety toward walking or moving around in fear another fall will happen from doing so.
Unfortunately, especially with older adults, the restriction of movement and mobility from fear of falling can actually lead to a functional decline as the result of becoming less physically active.
The overall feeling of anxiety can even impact the ones around you, leaving them worried about possibly losing the sense of independence healthy movement habits bring.
This is why it's so important to work on overcoming your fear of falling.
Understanding Common Causes of Falls
The best way to start overcoming your fear of falling is by understanding the causes of falls so that it can be avoided in the future. Knowing that you're working against the common causes of falls will be a big step in building and regaining confidence.
Some of the most common causes of falls include:
- Medications—Some medications have side effects such as dizziness, headache, weakness, or drowsiness, which can all affect balance and lead to falls.
- Weak Muscles or Feet Problems—Weak leg muscles or certain foot conditions can lead to reduced physical activity due to pain or poor overall balance.
- Memory Loss, Confusion, or Disorientation - These symptoms can affect your ability to judge situations and perceive hazards that may cause a fall.
- Dehydration or Poor Nutrition—Both of these can lead to overall weakness or disorientation. (Fuel your body in the unique way it needs with the help of Loop Nutrition's Registered Dieeitans!)
- Improper Footwear - Shoes with poor grip that are too small or too big can increase your risk of falling.
- Problems with Vision and/or Hearing—Again, these can affect your ability to recognize certain hazards or negatively affect your balance.
Once you have identified and addressed the cause of the fall, you can work on helping yourself or your loved one overcome their fear of falling.
How to Overcome Your Fear of Falling
You don’t have to let the fear of falling control your life. Here are some simple ways to start overcoming that fear:
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Work on Strength and Balance: Practice exercises that build functional strength and improve balance. This can help you feel more confident when moving around.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing, mindfulness, or gentle yoga to help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
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Talk About It: Share your fears with family, friends, or a professional who can help you feel supported and less alone.
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Seek Professional Help: Working with a physiotherapist can make a big difference. At Renew Wellness, our team provides 1:1 treatments tailored to you so you can regain strength and balance and start moving confidently!
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Take the Next Step Towards Confidence
Don’t let the fear of falling stop you from enjoying life. With the right help and strategies, you can overcome this fear and get back to being active. We encourage you to work with a physiotherapist at Renew Wellness. Together, we can help you build your confidence and enjoy life to the fullest again!
