Falls are a threat to the health of older adults and can reduce their ability to remain independent and age successfully. However, falls are not an inevitable part of aging, and there are proven ways to reduce them. Most falls take place in the home, so what can you do to prevent yourself or a loved one from falling?
Be proactive. To eliminate trip hazards in your home, begin with these simple changes.
Light up your living space.
Place night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Always turn on lights before going downstairs.
Assess your medications.
Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Make sure side effects are not increasing your risk for falls. The most common medications that may increase your fall risk are sedatives and antidepressants.
Get annual wellness exams.
Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Loss of vision as well as a loss of hearing can increase your chance of falling. Even a mild degree of hearing loss can triple the risk of a fall. A consequence of this can be the reduction of environmental awareness to people, pets, and other things going on around you.
Select proper throw rugs.
Not all throw rugs need to be removed. Look for rugs that do not “flip” or “scoot.” They should be secure. If you are using a walker or wheelchair, a low-profile rug will allow you to navigate without feeling like you are rolling over an obstacle course.
Wear the right kind of shoes and clothing.
Consider your clothing as part of your fall prevention plan. High heels, floppy slippers, and shoes with slick soles can make you lose your balance or fall. If you enjoy wearing a robe, keep it at calf height and off the floor. You do not want to step on loose clothing.
Use assistive devices.
If your doctor or physical therapist has recommended that you use a cane or walker, be consistent, whether day or night, and include this in your fall avoidance program. Depending on your home flooring, you may benefit from walker skis, glide caps, or tennis balls.
Keep moving.
Physical activity can go a long way toward fall prevention. If your confidence or lack of coordination is now limiting your ability to exercise, get the help you need from a physical therapist or other such qualified professional. With individualized fall prevention exercises as assessed by trained personnel, you can start doing the activities you love to regain greater mobility and independence.
Did you know?
The biggest indicator of being at risk of falling is if you have already had a fall in the preceding 12 months. Falls are the leading cause of trauma related hospital admissions for older adults. Take note…the most profound effect from a fall is the loss of living independently.
So, let’s get started.
Take the necessary steps to eliminate trip hazards in your home. Additionally, spread the word by sharing this article with loved ones and others who might be at risk of falling. PREVENTION IS PRICELESS!!
Written by: Rebecca Gillet, PT. Founder of Cypress Home Therapy, a physical therapy practice in Boise, Idaho. This practice specializes in fall prevention and senior fitness and wellness services to help our older population 
to age successfully. For convenience, visits occur in the client’s home or place of residence. You may contact Rebecca or gain further information by following the website at www.cypresshometherapy.com
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Helpful Resources
Older Adult Fall Prevention: CLICK HERE
Source: Centers for Disease Control and PreventionFalls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention: CLICK HERE
Source: National Institute on AgingNational Alliance for Caregiving: CLICK HERE
Source: National Alliance for CaregivingCaregiving: CLICK HERE
Source: Smart Strategies for Successful Living
