How to Prevent Falls at Home
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults. Nearly one-third of older persons fall each year, and half of them fall more than once. There are many reasons that 65 and older age group people fall. Normal aging causes our muscles to become weaker and our reflexes slower, our eyesight isn’t as good as it was, and some prescribed medications can cause dizziness. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy, caregiver, or other steps to help prevent falls.
Factors Leading to falls
- Poor hearing
- Poor eyesight
- Change in medications in the past four weeks
- Side effects of some medications particularly medications for depression, sleep problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart medications
- Poor lighting, throw rugs, and safety issues in the home
- Decrease strength and balance due to illness and physical conditions
Tips to Help Prevent Falls
- Remove throw rugs
- Have your vision and hearing checked each year or if you notice a change. Trouble seeing and hearing can make it difficult to avoid objects that make you lose your balance.
- Don’t use a cane or walker when going up or down the stairs
- If you have stairs, use the rail support
- Place adhesive strips on the bottom of the tub
- Wear shoes with non-skid soles
- Be sure your home is well lit so you can see things
- Don’t put electrical cords across pathways
- Keep pets under control and out of pathways
- Take action to prevent falls