Preventing Falls

Falls are a common cause of injury in older adults.  Broken hips are just one of the risks of falling.  Plus, the fear of falling may cause a person to limit his or her mobility.  But you can do a lot to reduce the chances that you or someone you care for will fall.  Look below for tips that can help. 

Most serious falls occur at home.

• Look around the house for items that may cause someone to trip and fall.
• Make sure all rugs and mats are skid proof or secured with carpet tape.
• Remove electrical cords from pathways.
• Keep floors and stairways free from clutter.  Pick up papers, books, clothes and shoes.
• Roll up hoses and pick up tools in the yard.

Improve lighting in the home.

• Brighter lights can help a person see better and may prevent a fall.
• Have a lamp or night light near the bed.
• Even if the room is familiar, always turn on a light before walking into a dark area.  Consider using motion-, voice- or clap-activated switches.

Make the bathroom safer.

• Place a non-slip mat in the shower or tub.
• Install grab bars in the shower, tub and next to the toilet.
• If a person’s balance isn’t reliable, a shower bench with non-skid tips can be used in the shower or tub.
• A raised toilet seat is helpful for people who have trouble getting up and down from a regular toilet.

Wear safe shoes.  Use a cane or walker if needed.

• Choose shoes that are easy to walk in and give good support.
• Avoid shoes with slippery soles and those with high heels.
• Using a cane or walker can help you maintain your balance.

Poor vision can lead to a fall.

• A regular eye exam can determine if glasses are needed or if the current glasses are the right strength.
• An eye doctor can also check for cataracts or other conditions that may limit vision.

Regular exercise is important.

• Daily exercise helps maintain balance, flexibility and strength.
• Ask a health care provider about which kinds of exercise are best.

Review medications with a health care provider.

• Some medications or combination of medications can make a person drowsy or lightheaded.  This can increase the risk of falling.

Falls contribute to many serious injuries in older adults.  But falls are often due to hazards that are easy to fix.