Seven simple ways to prevent falls

September is Fall prevention month. Protect yourself at home and on the go with these smart strategies. 

Falls are all too common among older adults. In fact, 1 in 3 older adults will fall this year. That’s a big concern because bouncing back isn’t always easy. Among seniors, falls are the top cause of injuries, including head injuries, fractures, and even spinal cord injuries, warns Dr. Cynthia J. Brown, director of the division of gerontology, geriatric, and palliative care at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Fortunately, some simple steps can safeguard your home and protect you on the go. 

Your first step: Know the top home hazards. While a fall can happen anywhere, certain places invite more danger. One of the top places for concern: The bathroom. “I ask my patients to tell me one soft place they can land in their bathroom if they fall,” says Brown. “All have answered that there aren’t any.” Dr Brown recommends installing grab bars in the shower or beside the toilet. It’s also smart to use a nonslip mat in the shower.

Stairs are another place where a fall can lead to a significant injury. Having handrails on both sides and using them can reduce the risk of a fall, says Brown. 

Check out our latest Aspire Summer Magazine for a list of safety tips.

 

Among seniors, falls are the top cause of injuries, including

head injuries, fractures, and even spinal cord injuries..