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Falls Prevention
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Falls are predictable and preventable! Falls are not a normal part of aging. Rather, they are predictable and preventable events. Falls can cause serious injury and even death in the senior population (65+). The easiest way to decrease the risk of falling is to make your home safe. By using the following easy tips, you can help protect yourself, or someone you love from falling.
(The Ontario Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse [Online]. 2005 [2007 Nov12] Available from: URL: http://www.onpea.org/en/Home.htm)
Safety Tips for the Home
Look First
Assess Your Home for Hazards
By assessing your home, you will be able to eliminate potential hazards and reduce your risk of falling. Remove Clutter Indoors. Check pathways, including halls and stairs. Make sure they are free of objects such as: cords, boxes, family pet accessories and other items that could be a tripping hazard.
Outdoors - Make certain that walkways and stairs are free of leaves, water, ice, and snow. It is also important to keep both indoor and outdoor pathways well lit.
Wear the Gear
Light Up the Night. Keep a lamp at your bedside so you can turn it on before you get out of bed, to prevent stumbling in the dark.
Keep a flashlight and phone within reach of the bedside, in case of emergencies.
Get Trained
Use Assistive Devices Correctly. Make sure that you know how to use the devices, that they are installed properly, and that they have been adjusted to meet your needs. Wear personal emergency response devices if needed.
Secure Rugs. Use mats with a non-skid backing and secure them to the floor. For better safety, remove scatter mats from your home completely.
Safety Tips for Yourself
Look First
Plan Ahead. Take your time and plan out your day to avoid rushing around. Move slowly when getting up from your chair or bed to prevent dizziness.
Have Regular Health Check–Ups with your health care provider. Changes in vision, hearing, bone and muscle function can lead to falls.
Wear the Gear
Wear supportive shoes. Wear no-skid, properly fitting footwear both indoors and outdoors.
Get Trained
Know your limits for physical activity and know when to ask for assistance.
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Be Physically Active
Regular physical activity can help strengthen muscles and bones and improve coordination.
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Choose Healthy Foods
Choose Healthy Foods
from the Canada Food Guide. This will ensure your body is getting all the essential nutrients, which will reduce fatigue.
- Knowledge is the Best Medicine
Talk with your health care provider and pharmacist about all your medications, including: prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
Stay Sober
Use your medication as directed and know how they affect you and what affect alcohol can have on them. Alcohol affects your coordination and balance, increasing your risk of falling.
If You Fall
If you fall, try to land on your buttocks to help prevent serious injury. Take your time before getting up. Make sure you have not injured yourself. This will help to prevent further injury. If you are injured, seek medical assistance. Try not to let the fear of falling stop you from being active because inactivity increases your risk of falling.
Other Resources and Information Links
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