Annually, seniors and older adults face significant injury risks from falls, often occurring at home. Fortunately, these falls are largely preventable through straightforward home modifications and lifestyle adjustments.
To reduce fall risk, four key strategies are recommended:
- Engage in Regular Exercise:
- Activities like walking or Tai Chi are ideal, enhancing balance, muscle strength, and overall well-being without being overly strenuous.
- Annual Vision Exams:
- Regular check-ups ensure that any necessary glasses are up-to-date, as vision tends to change with age, affecting fall risk.
- Medication Review:
- Regular assessments by healthcare providers help manage prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, avoiding side effects like dizziness or sleepiness that could increase fall risks.
- Home Safety Enhancements:
- Implementing safety measures at home is crucial. This includes:
- Adequate lighting both indoors and outdoors.
- Decluttering walkways.
- Non-slip mats in showers and tubs.
- Grab bars near toilets and showers.
- Shower benches for added stability.
- Easily accessible storage for commonly used items.
- Toilet height adjustments for easier access.
- Bedroom support poles for safer bed transfers.
- Secure carpeting and rugs to prevent tripping.
- Sturdy handrails on stairways.
- Tools like Couch Canes and Furniture Risers to assist with sitting and standing.
- Riser Recliner Chairs for ease in sitting and standing.
- Handybars for safer car entry and exit.
- Bed rails for additional support when getting out of bed.
- Keeping telephones within reach in key areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom for emergency communication.
By implementing these measures, seniors can significantly lower their risk of falls, promoting safer and more independent living environments.