50+ Lifestyles

Preventing Falls: Easy Measures to Stay Safe

By Devin Hansen
Milestones Area Agency on Aging

Falls are a primary source of injury for older Americans. A simple fall can lead to broken bones, long hospital stays, and sometimes even permanent disability. It’s essential to adopt straightforward measures to avoid them. Here are five easy strategies to help prevent falls:

1. Consult with Your Doctor

• Review your medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, for any interactions or side-effects that could cause dizziness or imbalance.
• Discuss any near-falls you had in the past to help determine prevention methods tailored to your lifestyle.
• Evaluate any health conditions that might increase your risk for falls, such as certain eye or ear disorders that may affect balance.

2. Stay Active and Exercise

• Engage in physical activities like Tai Chi, walking, or water exercises, which can significantly reduce falls by enhancing strength, balance, and flexibility.
• Consider taking a class through Milestones falls prevention programming, such as Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention and Matter of Balance on our website (Milestonesaaa.org).
• If you’re hesitant about exercising due to a fear of falling, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They might suggest monitored exercise routines or refer you to a physical therapist for a tailored program.

3. Choose the Right Footwear

• Avoid wearing high heels, flip-flops, loose-fitting slippers, and shoes with slippery soles.
• Opt for well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles and slippers that are snug.

4. Make Your Home Safer

• Decorative rugs can be a tripping hazard. Ensure that all rugs are secured with non-slip pads or double-sided tape. Better yet, consider removing rugs entirely.
• Ensure items that you use every day are within reach and you do not have to climb or stretch to get them.
• Install a raised toilet seat or armrest-equipped toilet seat, and nonslip mats in bathtubs and showers. Also consider handrails inside and outside of the shower for additional support, or even a sturdy plastic seat inside the shower.
• Check the sturdiness of all staircase handrails. Also consider installing handrails on short staircases, even if it is just a couple steps. Nonslip tread on wooden steps is essential.
• Watch out for pets! Make noise or call their name when you are walking around the house so you don’t trip over a sleeping cat or dog.
• Remember to always carry a phone or a medical alert device, especially if you live alone.

5. Brighten Your Home

• Install night lights in key areas like hallways and bathrooms.
• Be sure that lamps are accessible from your bed, and that light switches are easily reachable.
• Consider using glow-in-the-dark switches and have flashlights available for power outages.

If needed, seek advice from an occupational therapist for more fall prevention ideas. You can also reach out to us here at Milestones at 800-410-6222 and ask about falls prevention resources.  Remember, investing in fall prevention means investing in your well-being and independence.

Milestones Iowa Area Agency on Aging promotes a variety of Wellness Programs dedicated to building healthy lifestyles for older adults through education, counseling, and a variety of fitness and wellness classes to help keep you healthy and independent. Want to Learn More?  Call Milestones at (855)-410-6222 or visit milestonesaaa.org.