Consider six simple fall prevention strategies to reduce your chances of having a fall:
1. Make an appointment with your health care provider:
Your health care provider can assess your risk and discuss fall prevention strategies, and they may want to check your current medication, any previous fall and/or any eye and ear disorders that may increase your risk of falling and or re-occurring.
2. Keep moving:
Doing regular strength exercises and balance exercises can improve your strength and balance and reduce your risk of having a fall. As long as your health care provider approves, consider simple activities such as walking, dancing, water workouts, tai chi or specialist training programmes created by a physical therapist referred by your GP.
3. Remove home hazards:
Take a look around your home for potential fall hazards and set simple changes to make your home safer such as:
- Remove objects such as boxes, electrical cords, coffee tables and plant vases from high-traffic areas.
- Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food.
- Use non-slip floor mats in your bathtub, shower and/ or beside your bed.
4. Light up your living space:
Make sure all rooms, passages and staircases are well lit to avoid tripping on objects that are hard to see.
5. Use assistive devices:
Your health care provider might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady. Other assistive devices can help, too. For example:
- Handrails for both sides of stairways
- Bed rails
- A raised toilet seat or one with armrests
- Grab bars for the shower or tub
- Use a bath seat, which allows you to sit while showering.
- Bed Alarm and Sensor Pads
If necessary, ask your health care provider for a referral to an occupational therapist. An occupational therapist can help you brainstorm other fall prevention strategies.
6. Wear sensible shoes:
Consider changing your footwear as part of your fall prevention plan: wear properly fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with non-skid soles. Sensible shoes may also reduce joint pain.
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