Stay on Your Feet: 5 Tips for Preventing Falls as You Age

As we age, falling becomes a real concern for our health.  According to the Center for Disease Control,  falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults in the United States. But injuries associated with falls are not inevitable.  With a few changes, you can greatly reduce the risk of falls for yourself and others around you!

1. Stay Active

Regular exercise  can help you maintain your strength, balance, and flexibility.  Consult with your provider to determine which exercise plan is right for you and yours. Some low-impact exercises you can start doing today include:

2. Review Your Medications

Many medications can cause side effects that increase the risk of falling. Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion, making it difficult to maintain balance and increasing the risk of falls. Other medications can cause vision changes, which can also increase the risk of falls. To prevent falls related to medications, it's important to review all of your medications with your healthcare provider regularly. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal supplements or vitamins you may be taking.

3. Keep Your Home Safe

Simple modifications to your home can reduce the risk of falling. Consider some of the following changes in your house to avoid trips and falls.

4. Wear Appropriate Footwear

Wearing appropriate footwear is an important aspect of fall prevention, as it can improve balance and reduce the risk of slipping. When selecting shoes, choose ones that fit well, provide good support, and have a low heel and a wide base of support. Avoid shoes with high heels, as they can throw off your balance, and shoes with slippery soles, which can increase the risk of falls.

It's also important to regularly check your shoes and replace them when they become worn or damaged. Worn-out soles, stretched out straps, or loose laces can make it harder to maintain your balance and increase your risk of falling. If you have specific foot or ankle conditions, such as arthritis or neuropathy, talk to your healthcare provider or a podiatrist for recommendations on appropriate footwear.

5. Get Regular Vision Checkups

Changes in vision can increase the risk of falling. The American Optometric association recommends annual vision and eye exams after the age of 60.  Additionally if you experience changes in vision, difficulty distinguishing colors, or it takes longer for your vision to adjust to changes in lighting levels, report them to your healthcare provider immediately.  Your healthcare provider can work with you to help minimize these changes.

Falls can be a serious risk as we age, but there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk and stay safe. Stay active by doing exercises that improve your balance, strength, and flexibility, remove trip and fall hazards from your home, wear appropriate footwear, review your medications with your healthcare provider, and get regular vision checkups. These simple steps can go a long way in preventing falls and maintaining your independence.

Regular checkups with your healthcare provider can help identify and address any health issues that may increase your risk of falling. Your healthcare provider can also review your medications, assess your vision and balance, and recommend any necessary treatments or lifestyle changes. It is important to schedule and attend regular checkups to maintain your overall health and well-being, and to catch any developing conditions that might make falls more likely earlier. So, be sure to make an appointment with your healthcare provider today by calling 406.454.6973 and take the first step towards a safer, healthier future.