Fall Prevention: How You Can Protect Yourself Inside and Outside Your Home

March 22, 2022/Dr. Carlos Romero

Dr. Carlos Romero

Every year in the United States, one in four adults over the age of 65 falls. That means that every year, 36 million older adults suffer a fall. Despite falls affecting a large number of older adults, falling is not a normal part of aging. In fact, the majority of falls are preventable when proper safety precautions are put into place. Do not let a fear of falling keep you from doing the activities you enjoy. Below are some tips and advice, so you can keep on your feet and reduce your risk of falling.

Talk To Your Doctor

The most important step you can take to avoid falling is talking to your doctor about your concerns. If you have ever had a fall in the past, let your doctor know the details of the fall such as:

What time of day it happened
Where it happened
What you believed caused you to fall

Even if you have not fallen, speaking with your doctor allows you to proactively reduce your risk of falling.

Keep Your Home Safe

60% of falls happen at home. Improving the safety of your home can greatly reduce your risk of falling. Some of the best ways to fall-proof your home are:

Keep your home well lit
Remove clutter from the floor
Avoid throw rugs and safely secure all rugs to the floor
Install handrails in the shower and on both sides of the stairs
Do not wear socks around the house
Keep everyday items in a place where you can easily access them
Make sure beds and chair are easy to get in and out of

Another way to ensure safety around the home is to wear a medical alert device that can send an alert when you fall.

Take Precautions Outside the Home

Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine is vital to physical health and mental wellbeing, but it is important to take precautions when doing so. When walking outside, these safeguards can help prevent falling:

Avoid flip flops and sandals in favor of shoes with a flat heel and rubber sole
Walk on the grass if the sidewalk appears to be unsafe
Walk during daylight hours
Keep your cellphone with you when you walk
If possible, walk with a friend or family member

Maintain Your Health

One of the best ways you can decrease your falls is by maintaining your health. Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet and getting your scheduled check-ups are key to preventing falls. Other ways to maintain your physical health include:

Participating in exercise classes designed to improve strength and stability such as Bone Builders
Stay hydrated to avoid dizziness
Get your eyes and hearing checked regularly
Review your prescriptions with your doctor and pharmacist to ensure there are no side effects that put you at risk of falling

Falls are a serious threat to your health. They can lead to fractured and broken bones, resulting in hospitalization and loss of independence. By taking steps to reduce your risks of falling and improving your safety, you can increase your health and wellness, independence and happiness.