PREVENTING

FALLSA GUIDE FOR SENIORS

Falling is a serious matterOf those one in three seniors who fall each year, only half tell their doctors. Furthermore, falling one

time doubles your chances of falling again.

From the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

› Each year, 2.5 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.

› Over 700,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury

or hip fracture.

› More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways.

› Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Many people who fall, even if they’re not injured, become afraid of falling again, and so cut down on their

everyday activities. That lack of activity causes weakness, which increases the risk of another fall.

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Read on to seehow YOU canminimize therisk of fallingSome important first stepsto take:

› Have an annual physical that includes an

evaluation for cardiac and blood pressure

problems. Have your bone density tested

to recognize signs for developing osteoporosis, too.

› Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the medicines you are

taking, both prescription and non-prescription.

Some medications can cause you to become light-headed or

dizzy, and that can lead to falls. Also, as you age, medicines can affect you differently.

› Maintain a healthy diet with enough calcium and Vitamin D intake from both food and supplements.

Keep those bones and muscles healthy!

› Have your vision checked every year. If you are not seeing clearly, your balance may be affected and

you also are at risk of overlooking fall risks, such as objects in your way.

› Stay physically active. Check with your doctor to find out what exercise and physical

activity is best for you. Exercising enhances balance and coordination, and that will help

prevent falls.

› Check your shoes. Wearing footwear with non-slip soles that are not too thick helps you to maintain your

balance. There are many safe choices out there that are still fashionable, so you don’t have to forego

looking good!

Make your home a safe zoneThere are many hidden risk factors at home that can cause a fall. Ask a loved one to go through your

home with you, searching each room or area for items that might pose a risk.

Kitchen

› Clean up spills immediately. Keep a roll of paper towels

handy.

› Store everything within easy reach. Do not stand on chairs

or boxes.

› If you must use a step-stool, make sure it has a grab-

rail along the top.

› Remove all throw rugs and use are rugs that are held securely

in place with rubber backing.

Bathroom

› Make sure the bathroom is well-lit, and keep a night light on at all

times.

› Use a rubber mat or place nonslip adhesive tex-tured

strips inside the tub or shower.

› Use a rubber mat or rug with rubber backing next to

the tub or shower to get in and out safely.

› Install sturdy grab bars on the bathtub and show-er walls.

› Use a toilet with a raised seat and/or use armrests to help

stabilize yourself.

› Replace glass shower walls with non-shattering materials.

Bedroom and Living Areas

› Keep the rooms well-lit.

› Keep clutter off the floor.

› Arrange furniture so that you have a clear pathway as you

walk.

› Repair any loose flooring.

› Keep a flashlight by your bed and on a sofa’s end table in

case power goes out.

› Secure any area rugs with rubberized backing.

Additional Suggestions

› Keep stairs clear of clutter, boxes, etc.

› Make sure you have adequate lighting and handrails on both

sides of stairways.

› Hardwood steps should have non-slip treads applied.

› Put a bell on your small pets so you know when they are near

your feet.

› Don’t walk a large dog unless it is trained not to pull you when on

the leash.

› Install motion-detector lights so that they turn on when you step

outside at night.

Resources: Center for Disease Control & Prevention and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Blue Star Service Solutions, Inc. 7619

Standish Place Rockville, MD 20855

TOLL FREE PHONE #

1-800-300-1724

https://www.bluestarhonorcare.com