Download presentation
Presentation is loading. Please wait.
Published byJemimah Lewis Modified over 9 years ago
1
This presentation has been produced with permission from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STRAC LOGO
2
Identify slip, trip and falls hazards Discuss ways to avoid injuries from falls Discuss the importance of movement Review medications that may cause falls Discuss why eye exams are needed
3
Population over 60 is growing Encouraged to remain active One out of every 3 persons over age 65 falls each year Fear of falling limits activities
4
Elderly often live in homes with small children and pets Half of the falls occur in the home Falls are preventable!!
5
Osteoporosis (bone strength) Foot problems, unsafe shoes Dizziness Muscle weakness Nutrition Immobility Medications Heart problems
6
Broken bones ◦ Hip ◦ Pelvis ◦ Arms ◦ Legs ◦ Back Head injuries
7
Hip fractures result in hospitalization for up to one week One in four have long term care for one year Injuries to arms or legs reduces your ability to care for yourself
8
Move even while sitting!!! Start Simple Set a Schedule, make it a new habit Start Slowly, gradually increase time Write it down/keep a record Reward yourself Be aware of your surroundings
9
Sit and Fit – Chair exercises Individualized Program Groups Tai Chi Walking – pedometer Water activities Always visit with your doctor before starting before starting an exercise program
10
May increase fall risk Aging affects how medications work Some medications may not work well together Over the counter drugs/herbs may increase fall risks Medications which require careful monitoring, such as blood thinners, blood pressure, diuretics, pain and heart medications Not taking medications correctly
11
Blurred vision Change in blood pressure Dizziness upon standing Confusion, impaired judgment Sleepiness Lack of coordination Short term memory loss
12
Read the directions – ask for larger print on the label Take only as directed Use pill boxes to organize and arrange meds Keep a list of all of your health care issues, medications and emergency family contacts Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your medications
13
How am I feeling – any changes?? How am I eating? How I am sleeping? How much I am walking? How I am thinking, such as difficulty remembering, reading, cooking, etc?
14
Aging is a common cause for change in vision Can increase fall risk Some vision problems occur slowly and painlessly Early diagnosis may reduce vision loss
15
Visual clearness (acuity), depth, color perception, ability to focus and coordination of eyes Examining eye structures with specialized equipment Dilation of the pupils allows exam of the inside of the eye
16
Corrective lenses/contact lenses Sunglasses Medications Surgery
17
Floors ◦ Furniture ◦ Throw rugs – slip/moisture resistant ◦ Objects on the floor – wire, cords, telephone ◦ Stairs and steps - clutter
18
o Loose uneven steps, loose carpet/rugs o Lights night light, top and bottom of stairs) o Handrails – toilet/shower/stairs o Carrying too much o Rolling chairs
19
Kitchen o Use lower shelves for frequently used items o No ladders or step stools o Watch for water on the floor o Use non-slip absorbent rugs next to sink o Keep appliance cords out of walkway
20
Bathrooms o Use non slip rubber mat in shower o Install handrails, grab bars – shower/toilet o Install raised toilet o Use shower chair with hand held shower
21
Bedroom ◦ Lighting ◦ Where are your shoes? What type of shoes? ◦ Take your time once you sit up ◦ Robes should not touch the floor ◦ Clutter on floor ◦ Height of your bed
22
Living Room o Height of couch/chairs o Electrical cords o Lighting o Access to telephone
23
Take control of your life Stay as active as possible – get stronger Talk to my doctor about my medications Get my eyes checked regularly Make my home safer for me
Similar presentations
© 2025 SlidePlayer.com Inc.
All rights reserved.