According to a report produced by the CDC, 14 million Americans age 65+ fall each year, and falls are the leading cause of injuries among older adults. The risk for falling can increase as we age due to muscle weakness, poor balance, health conditions or the side-effects of certain medications. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is September 22-26—a perfect time for you to evaluate your fall risk and take steps to reduce it.

What Steps Can You Take to Reduce Falls?

Fall risks may increase as we age, but that doesn’t mean they are inevitable or that you have to live your life in fear. An article published in the Mayo Clinic outlines specific steps you can take to reduce fall risks now and into the future and live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider

• Discuss the medications and supplements you are taking and any interactions or side-effects you need to be aware of that could increase your fall risk. These side-effects could include dizziness, sleepiness, or impaired cognitive function. Ask if there are alternative medications that have lesser side effects.

• Go over any health conditions you are experiencing, like muscle weakness, joint pain, numbness in the feet or legs or hearing or vision issues. Discuss treatments, therapy or lifestyle changes that could alleviate the symptoms.

2. Commit to an exercise plan

• With the guidance of your healthcare provider, start an exercise plan. Activities like walking, water workouts or Tai Chi are easy on your joints and can reduce your risk of falling by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility.

• Consider working with a physical therapist if you have recovered from recent injuries, or if you have a health condition that causes numbness or muscle weakness. They can design exercises to help you rebuild strength safely.

3. Choose the right footwear

• High heels, floppy slippers and shoes with slick soles can cause you to slip, trip or stumble and fall. Wear properly fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with non-skid soles to reduce fall risks and reduce joint pain.

4. Create a safer living space

• Remove clutter and trip hazards from walkways. This can include electrical cords, boxes, papers and loose rugs that easily slip.

• Repair loose floorboards or carpeting.

• Store often-used items within easy reach so you can avoid using ladders when possible.

• Use non-slip mats in your bathtub or shower.

• Make sure walkways in your living space are well-lit after dark or keep a flashlight by your bed in case you need to get up in the night.

5. Use assistive devices

• Ensure stairways have handrails on both sides and bare wood stairs have non-slip treads

• Install grab bars in the shower or tub

• Use a sturdy, plastic seat for the shower or tub, and a handheld shower nozzle so you don’t have to stand while showering.

If you take these steps, you can reduce your fall risk and experience better overall health and well-being.

The Safety and Well-Being of Our Residents is Our Top Priority at Touchstone Communities

At Touchstone Communities, we are committed to keeping our residents safe and healthy and providing the highest quality of life possible. Our personalized physical, occupational and speech therapy services help our residents to maintain physical function, reduce fall risks, and remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. Our activities provide opportunities for social engagement and cognitive stimulation. Contact us to learn how we Make Lives Better at Touchstone Communities.