The National Council on Aging and the Centers for Disease Control report that falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older Americans — and that nearly 1/3 of Americans who are 65+ experience a fall each year. The good news is, most falls are preventable! As we get older, it becomes more important than ever to take steps to reduce the risk of falls. This includes things such as increasing balance, flexibility, and strength.
There are some other simple things you can do to minimize your risk:
1. Clear the Clutter. Keep paths and stairways in your home clear and free from clutter. Most falls occur at home. Keep your home a clutter-free zone by removing any boxes, electrical cords, books, or office and cleaning supplies which can become trip hazards.
2. See Your Eye Doctor. Most of us wear some sort of corrective lens, whether it’s prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses. It’s easy to get comfortable with your prescription and forget to get an annual check-up. But this is an important factor in fall preventions! Keep your prescription up to date to manage any vision changes so you can see clearly at home, at work, and every place in between.
3. Check Your Medications. Many over-the-counter and prescription medications have side effects which could impair your vision or cause dizziness or feelings of lightheadedness. If you’re on any new medications or if you’ve been taking something for years, talk with your doctor about any side effects to be aware of.
4. Exercise. There are so many healthy benefits to beginning an exercise program. It helps keep your heart and body healthy. And, an exercise routine helps strengthen and tone your muscles, which provide critical support for your body — a critical component of fall prevention.
Talk to one of our professional Physical Therapists today (301) 220-2316 about our FREE Fall Risk Assessment. We can arm you with the tools you need to prevent falls and keep your body safe, healthy, and strong.