Reduce the Risk of Falls and Their Consequences
Tips for Preventing Falls by Improving Your Health and Home Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Have your physician review your medications to ensure interactions do not increase your risk of a fall. For example, tranquilizers, sedatives, antidepressants and over-thecounter medicines can affect your balance.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal traumarelated hospital admissions among older adults. But even when no physical injury occurs, experiencing a fall can cause older adults to become worried and then depressed, to suffer decreased confidence and selfesteem and to begin to limit their activities and socialization out of fear – all of which can lead to more falls.
• Be careful when drinking alcohol since it can impair perception.
Falling is not a normal part of aging. And fortunately, falls can be prevented with awareness and simple changes around the home. Prepping Yourself for Fall Prevention As we age, we cannot regain our balance from a stumble as quickly as we once did but we can ensure we stay as alert, strong and flexible as possible to prevent that stumble in the first place. • Wear sturdy, nonslip shoes every day and all the time and clothing that is well-fitted and doesn’t bunch up or drag on the ground. • Take your time rather than hurrying, particularly when walking up and down stairs. • Be particularly mindful when visiting places outside your home since you may not be as familiar with their layouts. • Stay active and walk every day. Consider taking exercise classes, balance classes, yoga or tai chi to build physical strength and improve balance. • Schedule a doctor’s appointment specifically to discuss fall prevention. 18
• Discuss with your doctor any numbness, aches, foot pain or shortness of breath you experience as you go about your daily routine. • Get tested for balance, strength and gait. • Be treated for low blood pressure and vitamin D and calcium deficiencies as all are risk factors for falls. • Ensure that any eyesight or hearing issues are noted and corrected if possible. Get an eye exam at least once a year and update your glasses as needed. If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, consider getting a pair with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking, because these types of lenses can impact how you judge distances. • Impaired hearing can put you at risk for balance issues in addition to isolation and reduced activity. Have your hearing checked and use a hearing aid if one is prescribed. • Bring up any other issues you think may put you at risk for a fall. For instance, if you’ve already suffered a fall, let your doctor know. • Ask for your overall risk level for falling and for recommendations on how to prevent a fall. • Talk with your healthcare provider about whether mobility assistance devices such as canes or walkers might help if you have impairments.
Aging Resources 2020–2021
