FALL PREVENTION

As we age, the chances of falling and hurting ourselves in the home become more likely. Falls happen for many reasons. There are several risk factors that are known to increase your chances of falling.

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE: Poor vision or hearing History of falls General weakness Use of aids, such as a cane or walker

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE: Poor nutrition Certain medications Being over 65 years old Conditions in the home such as slippery floors, loose rugs, cords on floor

OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU PREVENT FALLS

HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING:

STAY HYDRATED Dehydration can lead to dizziness or fainting. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

AVOID CAFFEINE, SUGAR, AND ALCOHOL These stimulants can cause your body to lose fluids, which can lead to dehydration and falls. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

KEEP YOUR BODY STRONG This requires exercise! While some seniors may avoid exercise in order to avoid falling, exercise will keep your body strong, improve your balance and actually help prevent falls. Ask your doctor about starting a healthy exercise program to build your body’s strength. Ask us about our tai chi and Silver Sneakers classes. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

BE CAREFUL AROUND PETS Pets can be wonderful companions, but can get under your feet when you are doing every day activities. Make sure your pets are secure while you are moving around your home. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

STAY INDOORS DURING BAD WEATHER Avoid going outdoors when it is rainy, icy, or windy. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

TAKE YOUR TIME! Rushing can increase your chances of falling. Be sure to give yourself enough time to get around. LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

WEAR PROPER FITTING SHOES AND CLOTHING LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU FEEL DIZZY OR HAVE BLURRED VISION Some medications can cause dizziness. Let your doctor know right away if you become disoriented or experience a near fall. Also, you may need an eye exam. A simple change in your eyeglass prescription may help prevent a fall. Ask a member of our staff about our JenCare Vision Care services today.

LIGHTING IN THE HOME Replace dim, burned out, or glaring lights with bright, soft white light bulbs Make sure lights are easy to turn on and off

LIGHTING IN THE HOME Use a nightlight Keep a flashlight available

FLOORS IN THE HOME Clean up spills immediately Make sure floors are not slippery

FLOORS IN THE HOME Remove scatter rugs and throw rugs Place non-skid treads or double-sided tape under area rugs

FLOORS IN THE HOME Keep floors free from clutter Secure electrical cords behind furniture

PATHWAYS AND STAIRWAYS IN THE HOME Stairways should have good lighting Remove clutter, especially from hallways and stairways Stairs should have handrails on both sides

BATHROOM IN THE HOME Use a raised toilet seat and safety frame to assist in getting up and down from toilet

BATHROOM IN THE HOME Set water temperature to 120 degrees or less, in order to prevent burns and falls from trying to avoid burns

IN THE HOME Consider using a hand-held shower head, shower chair, and handrails in the shower or bathtub Use grab bars and non-skid adhesive strips in the bathtub BATHROOM

IN THE HOME Use liquid soap or soap on a rope to prevent dropping soap

WALKING AIDS IN THE HOME Use a walker or cane to maintain your balance, if necessary If needed, keep a walker or cane within reach. If your balance is unsteady, do not attempt to walk without them, and do not walk alone

WALKING AIDS IN THE HOME Use a wheelchair to get around, as needed If using a wheelchair, be sure to lock the brakes before getting up and sitting down

OTHER FALL PREVENTION IN THE HOME Store frequently used items at waist level

OTHER FALL PREVENTION IN THE HOME Select furniture with armrests for support in getting up and sitting down

OTHER FALL PREVENTION IN THE HOME Keep a phone within easy reach

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