A fall is a threat to the safety and independence of older adults; after an initial fall, chances double that there will be another. Each year, falls of people 65 or older result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments and are linked to over 800,000 hospitalizations. Fall prevention is an important aspect of promoting health and well-being, and there are several strategies and interventions that can help reduce the risk.
Regular Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity and exercise can improve strength, balance, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls. If you avoid physical activity because you’re afraid of falling, tell your healthcare provider. Physical therapists are movement specialists who can create an individualized program for you consisting of customized exercises aimed at improving your balance, flexibility, and muscle strength.
Wear Sensible Shoes
Avoid high heels, flip flops, and shoes with slick soles. It’s best to wear properly fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with nonskid soles.
Know Your Medications
Certain medications can increase the risk of falls due to side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness. Review all medications with a healthcare professional to identify any potential risks.
Regular Vision and Hearing Checks
Poor vision and hearing can contribute to falls, as issues with these sensory systems can affect balance and coordination.
Home Safety Assessment
Remove clutter, ensure good lighting, secure or remove rugs, install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and staircases, and make sure pathways are clear. Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower and consider using a shower chair for extra safety while bathing. Store clothing, dishes, food, and other necessities within easy reach and avoid placing them on high or low shelves.
Adequate Nutrition
Maintaining a healthy diet and adequate hydration can help prevent falls by ensuring overall health and strength.
Fall Detection Systems
Consider the use of a fall detection system that can automatically alert caregivers or emergency services if a fall occurs. Report falls to your healthcare provider.
Regular Health Checkups
Regular checkups with healthcare professionals can help identify and address underlying health conditions or risk factors for falls.
Fall Risk Assessment with a Physical Therapist
If you or a loved one has been hospitalized and needs time to rebuild strength to return to everyday living, look for a short-term rehab program to help facilitate a smooth transition between acute care and returning home or to other living arrangements. With a fall risk assessment, a therapist will determine the risk of experiencing a fall as well as the best plan of action for prevention.
Don’t let your fear of falling limit your activities and social engagements. Let medical experts and services help you identify risk factors and gain confidence to continue living life independently and safely.
Tonya Markert, PT, DPT, is a therapy manager at Edgerton Hospital and Health Services. edgertonhospital.com. Contact Edgerton Hospital at (608) 884-1390 to schedule a free fall risk assessment.
Photographs provided by Edgerton Hospital.
EDGERTON HOSPITAL
(608) 884-1390
edgertonhospital.com