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September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month, making it a good time to talk about something that can affect anyone, but becomes especially important as we age: preventing falls.
A fall may seem like a simple accident, but for an older adult, it can have serious and lasting consequences. A fall can result in a broken bone or head injury, but the impact often goes beyond the physical injury. Fear of falling again can cause someone to become less active, withdraw from activities they enjoy, or lose confidence in their ability to live independently. The good news is that many falls are preventable.
One of the best places to start is at home. Take a walk through your home and look for potential hazards. Remove loose rugs or utilize non-slip backing. Keep walkways and stairways clear of clutter. Make sure rooms, hallways and stairways are well lit, and consider adding nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms. Grab bars and handrails can also provide important support in areas where slips are more likely.
It is also important to pay attention to your health. Have your vision and hearing checked regularly, and talk with your healthcare provider about medications that may cause dizziness, drowsiness or changes in balance. If you have experienced a fall, even if you were not injured, tell your healthcare provider. A fall can sometimes be an early warning sign of an underlying issue that needs attention.
Staying active is another important part of fall prevention. It may seem counterintuitive, but avoiding activity because of a fear of falling can actually make the problem worse. Exercises that improve strength, balance and flexibility can help you remain steady on your feet. Programs specifically designed for older adults, including evidence-based fall prevention and balance programs, can provide a safe way to build confidence and reduce risk. Direction Home of Eastern Ohio and partners provide free classes in the community such as Tai Chi Quan- Moving for Better Balance, Matter of Balance and Stepping On. You can call Direction Home of Eastern Ohio at 330-505-2300 to find out where and when the next class in your area will start.
And don’t forget about footwear. Shoes that fit properly and have good support and non-slip soles can make a difference. Whenever possible, avoid walking in socks or slippers that do not provide adequate traction.
Fall prevention isn’t just an issue for older adults. Family members, friends and caregivers can play an important role, too. Sometimes a second set of eyes can identify hazards or changes in mobility that a person may not notice themselves.
Most importantly, have these conversations respectfully.
The goal isn’t to take away someone’s independence, it’s to help protect it.
At Direction Home of Eastern Ohio, we believe aging at home should remain an option, and preventing falls is an important part of helping older adults remain safe, active and independent in their communities.
This September, we encourage older adults and their families to take one step toward preventing falls. The Ohio Department of Aging’s 10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls campaign encourages Ohioans to get moving and take action to reduce their risk of falling. Prevention can start with something as simple as walking, improving your balance and strength, or taking a closer look at the safety of your home.
There are also local resources available to help. Direction Home of Eastern Ohio can connect older adults and their families with information about fall prevention, community programs, home safety and other services that can support safe, independent living. If you’re concerned about your risk of falling, or you’re worried about a family member, reach out. You don’t have to wait for a fall to happen before asking for help.
This month, take a look around your home. Talk with your healthcare provider. Find a local exercise or balance program. Take those extra steps to improve your strength and confidence. Because fall prevention isn’t about limiting independence. It’s about protecting it and making sure every step forward is a safe one.