Falls can derail routines, limit mobility, and shake confidence fast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over 14 million (about 1 in 4) adults 65 and older fall each year. Here are some tips on ways to avoid becoming a part of that statistic.
1. Stay Active and Build Strength
Exercising regularly builds leg muscles and improves stability, while walking regularly keeps your body strong and coordinated. You can also balance with gentle movements like yoga, Pilates, or Tai Chi.
2. Wear Supportive Shoes
Choose flat shoes with non-skid soles that fit well, and avoid flip-flops, loose slippers, and walking in socks. Replace old shoes when the bottoms wear down and lose traction.
3. Remove Home Hazards
Clear walkways of cords, papers, boxes, and clutter. Secure loose rugs using double-faced tape or a non-slip backing, and clean spills immediately to prevent slipping on wet floors.
4. Brighten Your Living Space
Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms, and place a lamp within easy reach of your bed. Turn on lights before you use the stairs or walk through dark rooms.
5. Review Your Medications
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the medicines you take. Check for side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, or confusion that can throw off your balance.
Get started today with a simple Fall-Risk Sweep.
Walk your home like a guest who’s never seen it before, and look for the usual troublemakers:
- Trip hazards: loose rugs, cords, clutter in walkways
- Lighting gaps: dim hallways, dark stairs, no night lights
- Wobbly support: shaky railings, slick steps, unstable chairs
If you do fall, our team at Northern Light Health is here to help you recover from any injuries you may receive.