(BPT) - When you're young, an injury from a fall may sideline you for a few days or weeks, but a full recovery is usually quick. As you get older, the consequences of falls are more serious, setting up a sequence of events that can have longstanding implications on independence and health.
Although falls become more common and can be more serious as you age, they are not a natural part of getting older. In fact, most falls are preventable. Knowing the risk factors and steps to prevent falls is important.
Risk factors for falls include overall health (e.g., physical fitness), environment (e.g., hazards at home), and behaviors (e.g., rushing around).
Simple steps to help prevent falls
Stay active. Exercise helps increase or maintain coordination and muscle tone that can keep you steady on your feet and sharpen your reactions. Walking, gardening or taking an exercise class are just a few ways to keep your heart healthy and your muscles toned.
Manage underlying chronic conditions. The better your overall health, the lower your risk of falling. Chronic conditions like diabetes, depression, osteoarthritis, obesity and high blood pressure can increase your risk. Managing conditions by seeing your health care provider regularly, taking medication as prescribed, eating a healthy diet and choosing appropriate exercise can help prevent falls.
Review medications. Some medications' side effects and interactions can cause dizziness, which can increase the risk of falling. Types of medicines associated with an increased risk include sedatives and diuretics, as well as those used to treat high blood pressure and anxiety. Talk to your health care provider about all prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines you take.
Get your eyes checked. Vision changes as you age, so it is important to get your eyes checked once a year to make sure your prescription is up to date and to be screened for any eye-related diseases like cataracts and glaucoma, which are usually treatable when caught at an early stage.
Assess your home. Look around your home for potential hazards. Consider enlisting the help of a family member or friend who may be more likely to notice things you don't. Make small changes like installing grab bars in your bathrooms, getting rid of slippery throw rugs (or adding a rubber backing), and keeping passageways inside and outside your home well-lit and free from clutter and debris.
For more tips and information, visit acl.gov/fallsprevention.
