Tips on Preventing Falls
Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 65 fall each year? Falls are the leading cause of deadly injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.
Common reasons why older adults fall are:
- Chronic health conditions
- Vision impairments or muscle weakness
- Balance impairments
Below is a list of items to look for in your home to help reduce the risk of falling.
Floors
- Remove rugs or use non-slip backing so rugs won’t slip
- Keep objects off the floor and stairs
- Coil or tape electrical cords next to wall to prevent tripping
Stairs and Steps
- Fix loose or uneven steps
- Turn on lights when moving
- Fix loose handrails
- Use rubber treads on uncarpeted stairs
Kitchen
- Move items high in cabinets to bottom shelves near waist height
- Never use a chair as a stool
- Use a sturdy step stool with a bar
Bedroom/Bathroom
- Place lamp close to bed
- Use night lights
- Put non-slip mats in tub or shower
- Install grab bars in tub/shower and next to toilet
Other helpful measures to prevent falls:
- Exercise regularly to help strengthen and improve balance
- Get up slowly after sitting or lying down
- Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist about medications that make you sleep or dizzy
Tags: falls, prevention, slipping