Fall Prevention Week
Fall Prevention Week, running September 23 – 27, is an important reminder to focus on ways to reduce the risk of falls, especially for older adults. While falls can lead to serious injuries, many falls can be prevented with some proactive measures.
Simple tips to prevent falls
Keep your home safe. To help minimize the risk of falls, remove clutter from walkways, move furniture from high traffic areas, secure rugs with double-sided tape to prevent them from sliding and use nonslip mats in the bathtub or shower (1).
Stay physically active. Regular physical activity strengthens muscle and improves balance. Exercise also helps keep your joints and tendons flexible. Walking, swimming, yoga and other low impact activities can help maintain physical health and mobility (2).
Review your medications with your doctor. Some medications can increase the risk of falls. Keep a current list of medications with you and at your home and take the time to review your medications with your healthcare provider at least once a year or whenever medication is prescribed (3).
Use support equipment. Mobility aids such as walkers, canes and scooters can be helpful forms of extra support. Support equipment is designed to enhance balance, stability and safety (4).
Get regular vision and hearing check-ups. Good vision and hearing are crucial for maintaining balance. Regular eye and hearing exams can help detect impairments early on. Glasses and hearing aids can improve environmental awareness and reduce risks of falls (5).
Sources:
“Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls”, Mayo Clinic, 14 Jun. 2024, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358
“Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention”, National Institute on Aging, 12 Sep. 2022,https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/falls-and-fractures-older-adults-causes-and-prevention#:~:text=Steps%20to%20take%20to%20prevent%20falls%201%20Stay,...%208%20Stand%20up%20slowly.%20...%20More%20items
“Preventing falls: Evidence-based tips for seniors and older adults”, The Ottawa Hospital, https://www.ottawahospital.on.ca/en/healthy-tomorrows/preventing-falls-evidence-based-tips-for-seniors-and-older-adults/
Gillette, Hope, “6 Practical Tips for Fall Prevention”, Healthline, 4 May 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health/fall-prevention#mobility-aids
Handezel, Sarah, “Fall Prevention”, Help Guide, 14 May 2024, https://www.helpguide.org/aging/healthy-aging/fall-prevention.htm