Q1: My grandfather have difficulty in balancing & had fallen once . What could be the reasons & what safety precautions can be taken?
A1: Falls are a major cause of injury in older adults. Weak muscles, poor balance, poor eyesight, medications and home hazards all increase the risk.
Tips 1: Keep floors clear of loose mats, wires and clutter.
Ensure good lighting, especially in corridors and bathrooms.
Encourage daily gentle walking and simple balance exercises.
Walking aid and support rails in bathroom is highly recommended.
Medicines at the age can cause dizziness and fall and hence these incidences must be reported to and discussed with the doctor.
Annual vision and hearing check is advised.
A safer home and regular movement can greatly reduce falls.
Q2: I am a young woman and I feel constant anxiety and sadness. How can mental health problems affect young women and how can you help?
A2: Young women often face additional pressures from studies, work, relationships and social expectations. Anxiety and low mood are common and treatable. Early support prevents them from becoming more serious.
Tips 2: Share your feelings with someone you trust.
Maintain daily routines: good sleep, balanced meals and light exercise.
Limit social media if it increases comparison or stress.
Seek counselling if the feelings persist.
You are not alone. Help is available and recovery is possible.
Dr. Raza Roshan | Roshan Polyclinic, Arusha | Health I.Q. | drraza5@yahoo.com
NOTE FOR OUR ESTEEMED READERS: ‘Ask Dr Raza’ is a public health education column. It has simple answers to your everyday health questions. It does not replace a consultation with your doctor. Practical tips are added at the bottom of every answer (the identities of the questioning individuals are not disclosed to maintain confidentiality). Please send any medical questions to: askdoctorraza@gmail.com
