Three ways to reduce the risk of falls and fall-related injuries

Are You or Your Loved Ones at Risk?

There are many factors that can lead to falls. Do any of these apply to you?

• Do you ever feel unsteady, or do your legs feel weak?
• Are you ever dizzy, lightheaded or off-balance?
• Do you take medications that cause tiredness, fatigue or dizziness?
• Have you ever had a diagnosis of stroke, diabetes or a neurological condition?
• Do you have vision problems or hearing loss?
• Do you have pain, numbness or weakness in your hands or feet?
• Are you worried you might fall?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, you are at risk.

Take Steps to Prevent Falls

Unfortunately, the CDC's data  also indicates that one fall significantly increases the likelihood of subsequent falls. Therefore, prevention is critical, and there are steps you can take to reduce your fall risk.

1. Make your home safe

Because home hazards are common factors in falls, it’s important to ensure that your home environment is safe.

• Clear up clutter, and remove any obstacles that could catch your foot and cause you to stumble.
• Add grab bars inside and outside your tub or shower and next to your toilet.
• Put railings on both sides of the stairs.
• Increase indoor visibility by adding more lights and/or brighter bulbs.

2. Check your meds

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your prescription and over-the-counter medications to see if any could make you dizzy or sleepy. Because these are common factors in falls, your prescriber may be able to recommend safer alternatives.

3. Do strength and balance exercises

Exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance, such as Tai Chi, can help reduce your fall risk. However, be sure that you participate in a safe environment, so you don’t take a beginner’s tumble.

If you would like help getting started with exercises to reduce your fall risk, the Steady Steps  program at the Aldersgate Village Recovery Center , offered in conjunction with RehabCare, is a comprehensive prevention program that can help you improve your balance and lower your risk of falling.

The Steady Steps program is customized for each patient and includes:

• Evidence-based therapy to help improve strength and mobility
• Assessment of your living environment to help you reduce risk of falls
• Medication review to help reduce side effects that may impact your balance

Browse our Recovery Center page  for more information, or ask your physician to contact our Recovery Center coordinator at (785) 409-9032.