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Make fall prevention, vaccines, your health priorities this autumn By Brian Sodoma

According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in five falls causes serious injury such as a broken bone or a head trauma in those 65 and older. That’s why, as we age, fall prevention is vital to staying healthy and enjoying life to its fullest.

“A hip fracture in older adults can be life altering,” explained Nimit Agarwal, MD, who leads the Division of Geriatric Medicine at Banner—University Medical Center Phoenix. “Complications can be severe and could take away some of your physical abilities.”

Here, Dr. Agarwal shares important fall prevention tips and other health insights to help you enjoy the autumn and winter seasons.

Start by optimizing your health

Maintaining muscle, balance and proper gait is critical for avoiding falls. Dr. Agarwal suggests exercising 30 minutes a day and weaving in weightlifting, yoga or Tai Chi for balance and muscle stretching. These activities will help you stay strong, flexible and able to walk properly. He also recommends between 500 to 1,000 mg of calcium daily as well as a Vitamin D supplement for healthy bones.

Have your doctor assess your fall risk

If you’ve fallen in the past or are worried about falling, have your physician evaluate your health holistically with fall risk in mind. They can review your medications and their effect on your physical abilities and identifysensory issues such as vision problems or nerve sensitivity if you’re diabetic or have neuropathy. All of these factors can affect your mobility and fall risk.

Have your home checked by an OT

Your primary care physician can also request an occupational therapist visit your home to assess possible risks. These professionals are trained to evaluate floor slip hazards, appropriate lighting, grab bar placements and more. They take into consideration your physician’s assessment, your personal habits and your environment to help you make safe decisions every day. If you have a caregiver or loved one who assists you at home, ask them to be present as well. “It’s important for everyone to have their eyes open and talk through situations before they happen or about things that could possibly happen,” Dr. Agarwal added.

Vaccines

Now more than ever, vaccines are another critical part of your health picture. Ask your physician if you are up to date on the following vaccines: Pneumococcus: A severe pneumonia with a high risk for complications; one vaccination required after 65, possibly a booster with certain health risks Shingles: A two-dose vaccine given after 65; the second is given two to six months after the first Flu: Should be received each year COVID-19 Vaccine: Critically important now, especially with variants occurring

GET ALL THE FACTS TO STAY HEALTHY To learn more about fall prevention or vaccines, visit cdc.gov/stillgoingstrong/