When we were younger, we made fun of those awful TV commercials where the older lady wailed: “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.”
These days, for many of us, it’s not so funny any more. Each year more than 25,000 older adults actually die falls and millions more are injured.

As we age, many factors increase out instability. These includes arthritis, weakening bones, inner-ear problems and diabetes.

Experts say one of the best ways to avoid falling in to recognize some of the most common danger zones:

Getting out of the tub or shower – We all now the phrase “slippery when wet” and we all know the wettest place in any home is the bathroom. If you have a tub, consider using a tub mat or applying one of the many non-slip coatings for tubs and showers that are available today. You might also want to consider installing a grab bar on the wall to help you get into and out of the tub.

Just walking down the hall – Loose rugs and slick hardwood floors can cause falls. Check the common walkways of your home for hidden hazards.

Getting out of bed – Most of us aren’t really fully awake when we first get out of bed in the morning. Some medications can increase the chances of dizziness when you first arise. Take you time. Sit up, perhaps do some stretching exercise to make sure you have a clearer head before getting your feet under you.

Wearing high-heels – While this is primarily a concern for women, there are some boots that can present challenges for either gender. Wearing high-heels or other types of footwear can increase your risk when walking in unfamiliar places.

Waking up in the middle of the night with heartburn? Relax! It could be your diet.

Cut down on these foods and see if that doesn't make a difference:

• Alcohol
• Chocolate
• Tomatoes
• Citrus Fruit
• Spicy and/or Fatty Foods
• Caffeine
• Peppermint
• Spearmint

Have you been keeping up with all your vaccinations?

Experts estimate that nearly 66% of Baby Boomers over 65 have not yet had their shingles vaccine. More than 40% haven't had a tetanus booster in the last decade.

Hey, we're not indestructible. In fact, our age bracket is one where shingles, the flu or other viruses can have serious consequences.

Do yourself a favor. Consult with your doctor about getting your flu shots annually, a tetanus booster every 10 years and by all means, make sure you've had your shingles vaccine (even if you've already had a shingles outbreak).

If you’re concerned about your health (and what Baby Boomer isn’t), the 2017 Senior Health Report is available from the United Health Foundation. Best of all, it’s free!

Visit AmericasHealthRankings.org to obtain your copy.

BTW – the healthiest states for Boomer Health are Minnesota, Utah and Hawaii. The 3 “unhealthiest”: Mississippi, Kentucky and Oklahoma.

The report is based on this definition of health from the World Health Organization:
“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”

If you’re jogging for the health benefits, you may want to slow down just a bit.

According to a recent study, walking at a brisk pace provides just as much benefit as running when it comes to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol!

New research shows that fighting with your husband, wife, or significant other can have an effect on your health.

People who rage with anger are likely to develop problems like high blood pressure and chest pains. Those who stuff their anger and stew silently are more likely to develop muscular pains, particularly in the neck or back.

Researchers stress the need for better communication between spouses/partners and, if necessary, the use of a professional counselor or therapist to help.

Vaping – the practice of smoking using an “electronic cigarette” has been touted as a safe alternative smoking, but is it really?

If you are a current tobacco smoker, the answer is – it’s safer than regular smoking, but it’s not safe.

Studies have confirmed that those who vape are 30% more likely to development chronic lung disease than those who don’t smoke at all. There are also preliminary reports that vaping may present other health problems.

So, the healthiest response would be – not to vape!

If your last experience with marijuana was in a dorm room with a towel stuffed under the door back in the 1970s. You’re probably aware that a lot has changed!

Currently, one of the elements in marijuana, CBD (short for cannabidiol) is being touted as a treatment for arthritis, stress, PTSD and more!

Here’s what you need to know:

1.) You won’t get high from CBD. The element in weed (or grass, as Boomers used to call it) that gets you high is THC. The CDB products being sold over the counter (and over the internet) contain less than 0.03% THC. That’s so the products can remain legal in states that have not yet legalized marijuana (for medicinal or recreational purposes).

As we move through our 50s and 60s, many of us are informed by our doctors tht we are prediabetic – meaning we run the risk of developing diabetes in the near future.

is there anything we can do to prevent that?

Actually, there is. Medical experts stress two things:

1.) Lose weight – If you’re overweight, bringing your weight back within normal guidelines reduces the chances of you becoming diabetic.

2.) Exercise – This really helps reduce your risk.

So don’t take that diagnosis lying down. Get active and get healthy!

You used to be able to wolf down hot wings and tequila after midnight. Now you even pass on a chili dog after 6 pm. Why?

Doctors say that over time the enzymes that aid digestion decease over time making it harder to break down food. In addition, taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen for joint pain. These substances made the stomach lining more sensitive.

To minimize the problem, experts recommend eating smaller portions and eating more slowly. (Also, try not to eat anything too late in the evening.)

Now, where did we put that habnero sauce?