Take action to prevent falls
Published March 3, 2024
You probably know someone in your life who has suffered from a fall. While falls are common – especially among older adults – they are not a normal part of aging.
Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults 65 years and older, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s so common that one in four older adults report falling every year.
The good news is most falls are preventable. Standing Strong NC, a project of the NC Center for Health and Wellness and the NC Falls Prevention Coalition, suggests four steps you can take to prevent falls:
Talk about falls
Don’t be afraid to talk about falls with your healthcare provider if you’ve had one, feel like you may fall or are worried about falling. Also, review your medications with your pharmacist. Some medicines can make you feel dizzy or drowsy, which increases the risk of falling.
It’s also important to talk with your friends and family about your concerns. Their support can be crucial to maintaining your health and independence.
Find an exercise program
Standing Strong NC says doing strength and balance exercises at least 3 times a week can help lower your risk for falling. Activities like walking, tai chi, strength training and even yard work like mowing or raking can reduce your risk of falling.
Henderson County Parks and Recreation offers a variety of activities and programs for seniors of all skill levels and abilities. A full calendar is posted online at www.hendersoncountync.gov/recreation. Places like the YMCA also offer healthy aging programs. These social activities also help you meet new people and become more involved in your community.
Whether you prefer to exercise alone or in a group, it’s important to find a program that works best for you. If you’re unsure about how to start an exercise routine safely, a physical therapist can help you find the right fit.
Check your eyes, ears and feet
Make sure you get regular checkups for your eyes, ears and feet. Not seeing well, poor lighting and wearing bifocals can increase fall risk. Ear health issues like dizziness, poor balance and difficulty hearing can also raise your chances of falling. Also, your feet can change over time so it’s important to find well-fitting shoes, especially if you have foot pain.
Make your home safer
Since falls commonly happen at home, it’s important to find and address potential hazards. The National Council on Aging recommends simple home modifications such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, using sturdy furniture, keeping walkways clear of clutter and keeping frequently used items between waist and shoulder height.
More resources
Visit Standing Strong NC’s website, www.standingstrongnc.org, for more prevention tips, videos and more tools to help you act. It’s never too late to take steps toward fall prevention and boost your overall well-being.