It Doesn't Have to Happen to You: Fall Prevention Tips

So many things about aging may seem out of our control, like the gray hairs, the wrinkles, that nagging feeling that we aren’t all we used to be. Instead of focusing on those minor details let’s turn our attention to the things we can control or at least try to prevent.

Did you know that falls are the sixth leading cause of death in people above the age of 65? This is a gateway injury to many serious complications of aging. By age 75, one in three people will fall each year. Those who repeatedly fall are at a higher risk of fracturing a hip. Most of these falls can be prevented and we can further reduce the risk of falling by heeding the following tips.

A few simple tips to reduce your risk of falling:

• Have proper lighting in your home. 
• Rugs should be firmly fastened to the floor
• Clear walkways of electrical cords
• Use bathroom grab rails and handrails in the stairways
• Wear shoes with firm, non skid, and non friction soles
• Review your medication regime with your doctor for side effects and cautions!
• Rise slowly avoiding quick movements that could throw off your balance
• Keep yourself hydrated

These are just a few of the many prevention tips our nurses give when assessing a home for fall risks. A Physical Therapist can also give you exercises that can help you "catch" yourself in the event that you do happen to trip. 

Have you had a fall?…..What do YOU do everyday to prevent yourself from falling?

We may grow older every year but age is only a number. Let’s live fully, laugh
a-lot, and continually learn so that together we can age with grace.

ARitter@nursesandco.com
www.Facebook.com/NursesandCo
www.NursesandCo.com
636.926.3722

Ann Byrum Ritter, RN