Fall in East Tennessee is a beautiful time of the year. As the leaves on the native trees begin to turn, the scenic views we’ve enjoyed all summer take on a new and breathtaking look. The array of colors is amazing.
A drive in the mountains, especially along the Cherohala Skyway, will find you “oohing” and “ahhing” with every bend in the road. Likewise, a hike in the woods will leave you amazed at the various colors and shades that the trees have to offer. Others are blown away by the views from their decks or their yards. Yes, Mother Nature is kind to us.
If we’re not careful, however, the trees that provide this beauty can also be a source of danger. The beautiful leaves eventually fall from the trees and cover the ground. The places where we normally find safe footing become well hidden. Further, the nuts and acorns that the squirrels like so much become ball bearings under our feet. Falls during this time of the year are quite common.
Falling is a major cause of injuries that often lead to emergency room visits. These injuries are among the most serious and common medical problems experienced by older adults. Research indicates that nearly one-third of older persons fall each year, and half of them fall more than once.
Because of underlying health problems — osteoporosis, for example — and decreased mobility or reflexes, falls often result in hip and other fractures, head injuries and even death. Accidental injuries are the fifth most common cause of death in older adults.
Who is likely to have a fall? Well, studies show that it is usually those with a history of falling during the past year or those with gait or balance problems. Studies have also shown that impaired vision, certain medications, decreased daily activities and impaired mental ability contribute to falls.
How can we prevent these falls? Fortunately, there are programs that can reduce the number of falls that we experience. Those with the greatest effect include strength and balance training, changing our living environment, withdrawing psychotropic medication, cardiac pacing and meditative exercise programs like tai chi and yoga.
What should you do if you have fallen? First, check to see if you have been injured. If you are hurt, call 911 for help as soon as possible or have someone call for you. If you have a fracture or if you have hurt your back or head, try not to move. Moving can complicate matters.
Try to remain calm. Remember, help is on the way. If you don’t feel like you are injured, do not hop up immediately. Every fall should be assessed to identify the cause. Was it really the wet leaves or was it low blood sugar? Was it the acorns or nuts? Was it an inner ear problem?
If you feel like you can, stand up slowly and count to 10 before you take your first step. If you feel dizzy or feel
pain, sit back down and ask for help. Once you are up, check yourself for unseen injuries.
The Tellico Village Volunteer Fire Department hopes all of you get to enjoy the splendor of fall in East Tennessee without a mishap. Our prayer is that each of you will have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving. We would also like to thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Bruce Johnson is an emergency medical responder with the Tellico Village Volunteer Fire Department.
