Falls

Injuries from falls are a major problem for older adults. In general, falls occur for three reasons; environment, vision difficulties or diminished body strength. Fortunately, many falls can be prevented---and there is no place like home to start!

You can help prevent such falls by inspecting your home and eliminating fall hazards. The following checklist can help you to prevent a fall in and around your home.

  • Have a lamp or light switch that you can easily reach without getting out of bed and keep a flashlight handy.

  • Use night-lights in the bedroom, bathroom, and hallways. Have light switches at both ends of the stairs and halls. Turn on the lights when you go into your home at night.

  • Install handrails on both sides of your stairs. (Don’t forget the front and back porch.) Add grab bars in the shower, tub, and toilet areas and consider using an elevated toilet seat.

  • Use bathmats with suction cups or non-slip adhesive strips in the shower or tub.

  • Wear non-slip low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly. Don’t walk around in stocking feet.

  • Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.

  • Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip, or attach non-slip backing.

  • If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit down or stay seated until your head clears. Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.

  • Purchase a step stool with high and sturdy handrails. Repair or discard wobbly step stools. Do not stand on a chair to reach things.

  • Paint the edges of outdoor steps and any steps that are especially narrow or are higher or lower than the rest. Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction

  • Keep outdoor walkways clear and well lit.

  • Use helping devices, such as canes, when necessary. Learn how to get out of a chair safely and lift objects correctly.

Another factor in falls is poor vision. Poor vision can cause you to not see obstacles in your path. Be sure to have regular eye examinations by an eye doctor. The doctor can tell if your glasses need updated and whether or not you have a condition that might limit your vision.

Falls can also be a result of medications or combinations of medications. Therefore, you should have your doctor or pharmacist take a look at the medications you are taking – both prescription and those that don’t require a prescription. A medication you take or the combination of medications you take could cause you to be drowsy or light-headed or affect your coordination and balance. Consider talking with your doctor about how you can reduce your chance of falling.

Another way to help prevent falls is to strengthen your body. A regular exercise program can help improve your balance and coordination – thus helping you avoid falls. Be sure to ask your doctor about the best type of exercise program for you to undertake.