1. Fall Prevention Tips
For the Older Adult
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2. Why do falls happen? Physical Condition Living Conditions
Decreases in muscular strength and flexibility can result in poor balance and agility.
Living Conditions
Poor lighting can affect visibility.
Cluttered living areas can disrupt walkways.
Medical Conditions
Certain medications can affect balance.
Various medical conditions and impairments can lead to frailty, dizziness, or weakness.

3. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is one of the best measures a person can take to prevent falls.
Your exercise program should focus on:
Upper, lower, and core body strength.
Flexibility in all of the joints; especially in the ankles, knees, and hips.
Cardiovascular endurance to prevent fatigue and maintain a healthy body composition.

4. Work On Balance Practice good posture
Maintain good posture to reinforce the strength of your core muscles.
Strengthen your core and lower body
Perform strength training exercises on 2 – 3 nonconsecutive days a week.
Attend the Balance Class.
Increase flexibility
Keep the joints of the body limber by practicing range of motion exercises daily.

5. Balance Class
The Balance Class is offered Monday – Friday from 10:00 – 10:30 in the Meeting Room.
Participating in this class on a consistent basis can help improve your balancing abilities and decrease your chance of falls.
In the class, we work on your:
Footwork and Coordination
Core and Lower Body Strength
Total Body Flexibility.
Speak with your health/fitness instructor today about joining the class!

6. Eat Calcium Rich Foods
Calcium is important for maintaining bone strength.
The following foods are great sources of calcium:
Yogurt
Skim Milk
Cheese
Broccoli
Spinach
Orange Juice
Calcium Fortified Cereal
Salmon

7. Home Prevention Bathrooms Living Areas
Use slip proof mats in the shower
Install handrails in the shower and by the toilet
Use a shower chair and sit while bathing
Living Areas
Make sure walking areas are clear
Keep home well lit
Hide electrical wires
Avoid using throw rugs
Have frequently used items easily accessible

8. Other Helpful Tips
Wear supportive shoes that fit properly and support your ankles.
Try practicing balance exercises on an unstable surface such as a large pillow or a balance pad.
Speak with your doctor about the medications you are taking. Find out if they could be contributing to balance or agility problems.