FALL PREVENTION

FALL PREVENTION

As we age, the chances of

falling and hurting ourselves

in the home become more

likely. Falls happen for many

reasons. There are several

risk factors that are known

to increase your chances of

falling.

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE:

Poor vision or hearing

History of falls

General weakness

Use of aids, such as a cane or walker

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE:

Poor nutrition

Certain medications

Being over 65 years old

Conditions in the home such as slippery floors,loose rugs, cords on floor

OUR GOAL IS TO HELP

YOU PREVENT FALLS

HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU

CAN DO TO HELP LOWER YOUR

RISK OF FALLING:

STAY HYDRATED

Dehydration can lead to dizziness

or fainting. Be sure to drink plenty

of water throughout the day.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

AVOID CAFFEINE, SUGAR,

AND ALCOHOLThese stimulants can cause your

body to lose fluids, which can

lead to dehydration and falls.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

KEEP YOUR BODY STRONGThis requires exercise! While some

seniors may avoid exercise in order

to avoid falling, exercise will keep

your body strong, improve your

balance and actually help prevent

falls. Ask your doctor about starting

a healthy exercise program to build

your body’s strength. Ask us about

our tai chi and Silver Sneakers

classes.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

BE CAREFUL AROUND PETSPets can be wonderful companions,

but can get under your feet when

you are doing every day activities.

Make sure your pets are secure while

you are moving around your home.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

STAY INDOORS DURING

BAD WEATHER

Avoid going outdoors when it is

rainy, icy, or windy.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

TAKE YOUR TIME!Rushing can increase your

chances of falling. Be sure

to give yourself enough

time to get around.

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

WEAR PROPER

FITTING SHOES AND

CLOTHING

LOWER YOUR RISK OF FALLING

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU FEEL DIZZY OR HAVE

BLURRED VISIONSome medications can cause dizziness. Let your doctor know right away if you become disoriented or experience a near fall.Also, you may need an eye exam. A simple change in your eyeglass prescription may help prevent a fall.Ask a member of our staff about our JenCare Vision Care services today.

LIGHTING

IN THE HOME

Replace dim, burned out, or glaring lights with bright, soft white light bulbs

Make sure lights are easy to turn on and off

LIGHTING

IN THE HOME

Use a nightlight

Keep a flashlight available

FLOORS

IN THE HOME

Clean up spills immediately

Make sure floors are not slippery

FLOORS

IN THE HOME

Remove scatter rugs and throw rugs

Place non-skid treads or double-sided tape under area rugs

FLOORS

IN THE HOME

Keep floors free from clutter

Secure electrical cords behind furniture

PATHWAYS AND STAIRWAYS

IN THE HOME

Stairways should have good lightingRemove clutter, especially from hallways and stairwaysStairs should have handrails on both sides

BATHROOM

IN THE HOME

Use a raised toilet seat and safety frame to assist in getting up and down from toilet

BATHROOM

IN THE HOME

Set water temperature to 120 degrees or less, in order to prevent burns and falls from trying to avoid burns

IN THE HOME

Consider using a hand-held shower head, shower chair, and handrails in the shower or bathtubUse grab bars and non-skid adhesive strips in the bathtub

BATHROOM

BATHROOM

IN THE HOME

Use liquid soap or soap on a rope to prevent dropping soap

WALKING AIDS

IN THE HOME

Use a walker or cane to maintain your balance, if necessary

If needed, keep a walker or cane within reach. If your balance is unsteady, do not attempt to walk without them, and do not walk alone

WALKING AIDS

IN THE HOME

Use a wheelchair to get around, as needed

If using a wheelchair, be sure to lock the brakes before getting up and sitting down

OTHER FALL PREVENTION

IN THE HOME

Store frequently used items at waist level

OTHER FALL PREVENTION

IN THE HOME

Select furniture with armrests for support in getting up and sitting down

OTHER FALL PREVENTION

IN THE HOME

Keep a phone within easy reach

ASK US ABOUT

ANY QUESTIONS