Every year, thousands of older adults fall and hurt themselves. Falls are one of the main causes of injury and loss of independence in people ages 65 and older.
There are many reasons older people fall. They may lose their footing when stepping off a street curb. Or they may fall after getting dizzy from taking medicines. Some falls may be related to the effects of aging, such as muscle weakness or delayed reflexes. Or falls may be related to the results of a stroke.
Experts agree that some falls in older adults can be prevented. But since each person's risks are a bit different, talk to your doctor about what might be most helpful for you.
Practice getting up from a fall. If you're unsteady, have someone with you when you practice. If you're able to get up without help, practice this once a week or often enough to feel comfortable.
If you can't get up by yourself, see a physical therapist for help. A physical therapist can work with you to prevent falls and make a plan for what you can do if you do fall.
These tips can help reduce your risk of falling when you're outdoors.
When you go outdoors, keep your hands free by using a cross-body shoulder bag, a fanny pack, or a backpack.
If you wear bifocal or trifocal glasses, you may have problems as you step off curbs or climb stairs. See about getting glasses with a single prescription that you can wear when you walk.
Find out about 24-hour drugstores and grocery stores near you that can take orders over the phone and make deliveries to your home. Use these services, especially when the weather is bad.
If you live in an area that gets snow and ice in the winter, have a family member or friend sprinkle salt or sand on slippery steps and sidewalks.
Then you can quickly call for help if you need it.
Current as of: March 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Anne C. Poinier MD - Internal Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Elizabeth A. Phelan MD, MS - Geriatric Medicine
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