Falls Prevention
Take Control of Your Health: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall
Every 11 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency
department for a fall-related injuery. Many falls are
preventable. Stay safe with these tips!
- Find a good balance and exercise program. Look to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact the CVCOA Helpline for referrals. Find a program you like and take a friend.
- Talk to your health care provider. Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling. Share your history of recent falls.
- Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Make sure side effects aren't increasing your risk of falling. Take medications only as prescribed.
- Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
- Keep your home safe. Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas.
- Talk to your family members. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just an issue for older adults.
To learn more, visit: ncoa.org/FallsPrevention