What is Falls Prevention?

Tripping and slipping may seem minor, but the injuries sustained from a ground level fall can be serious. Falls are the number one cause of injury, hospital visits due to traumatic injury such as a broken bone or head injury, and death from an injury among people age 65 and older. Unintentional falls are also the number one cause of non-fatal injury among children. 

 

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent falls, and some strategies to reduce falls are beneficial for everyone in the home. 

Steps to Prevent Falls

  • Talk to your healthcare provider.

    A healthcare provider can evaluate your risk for falling or refer you to a specific fall prevention clinic.

    Your healthcare provider or pharmacists can review your medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, for fall-related concerns

    Your healthcare provider may suggest supplements that could reduce your risk for falls, like Vitamin D

  • Get active with strength and balance exercises

    Staying active and exercising can reduce your risk for falls, especially if they are focused on making your legs stronger or improving your balance.

    Check out our list of Classes and Courses!

  • Make an appointment to get your eyes checked.

    Annual eye exams are important for checking for vision changes and making sure your prescriptions are up-to-date.

    Being able to see as well as possible can help reduce your risk for falls.

  • Improve safety around your home

    Falls around the home are common for older adults, children, and pregnant individuals. Going room to room and checking for safety can reduce the risk of falls for your family and guests. Check out these checklists to get started.

    CDC.gov Home Fall Prevention Checklist

    AARP’s Preventing Falls Checklist

For more information, check out these resources from our partners.

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Every year, more than 1 in 4 older adults falls. Less than half tell a healthcare provider.  

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