Falls Don't Have to Be Inevitable for Elderly

— as we get older, physical changes and health conditions can make falls more likely to happen. Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults. There are six simple fall-prevention strategies that can help!

1. Make an appointment with your doctor and ask the following questions:  Do the medications you are taking increase your risk of falling? Could your health conditions cause a fall?
2. Keep moving: physical activity can reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. Talk to your doctor about what kind of exercise might be right for you.
3. Wear sensible shoes: avoid high heels, floppy slippers, shoes with slick soles and walking in your stocking feet. Instead, buy properly fitting, sturdy shoes with nonskid soles. Choose lace-up shoes instead of slip-ons, and keep the laces tied. If you have trouble tying laces, select footwear with fabric fasteners.
4. Remove home hazards to make your home safer: Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways. Move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas. Secure or remove loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing.  Repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting right away. Store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach. Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food. Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.
5. Light up your living space: Keep your home brightly lit to avoid tripping on objects that are hard to see. Place nightlights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs. Turn on the lights before going up or down stairs.
6. Use assistive devices: your doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady. Other assistive devices can help, too. For example: Hand rails for both sides of stairways, nonslip treads for bare-wood steps, a raised toilet seat or one with armrests, grab bars for the shower or tub, and sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub — plus a hand-held shower nozzle for bathing while sitting down.

Source: The Mayo Clinic

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