Fall Prevention Tips for Older Adults

Fall prevention is important for everyone, especially older adults. Bones become more fragile as we age. Simple falls can result in broken bones, serious sprains, and other injuries that can be avoided with care.

A person who falls and experiences severe pain should contact emergency services immediately. However, the person may be able to move without major pain. The discomfort may be in the form of bruises or sprains. If this is the case, the person should go to a walk-in urgent care facility as soon as possible.

Home Safety

The first line of defense against falls is home safety. You may live alone or with other family members. Aging family members need to have the phone numbers of family and friends who can assist in emergencies. A phone should be close so that an injured person can call 911 for help if necessary. Also, consider carrying or wearing a mobile alert device.

Other safety tips include:

• Remove all tripping hazards, such as loose rugs, footrests, and power cords.
• Keep all hard surface floors dry to avoid slipping. This is necessary in all kitchen and bathroom areas.
• Use a shower chair and/or handholds in bathrooms.
• A walk-in tub is often recommended.
• Keep drawers, closet, and cupboard doors closed so you don’t bump into them.
• Wear comfortable shoes with good support.

Many injuries occur when people are in a hurry in their homes and yards. Take your time and don’t rush. Make sure you don’t trip over a hose or sprinkler head, or your dog!

Balance

Our ability to balance changes as we age. You may experience a dizzy feeling when you sit up in a hurry or look down. Again, take your time. In addition, exercising is highly recommended. This includes light yoga, chair exercises, water conditioning, and other activities that improve balance while exercising your muscles.

Walking is the best exercise. Use walking/hiking sticks for balance if you don’t need a cane or walker. Walking sticks are like ski poles. They help with balance, and they offer a little more exercise as you move your arms.

If you experience minor injuries, or think you might have a balance problem, visit us at Center for Family Medicine. We treat patients of all ages, and want to help you live an independent, healthy life.