6 Steps to Prevent a Fall

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. Many falls are preventable.

According to the National Council on Aging falling is NOT a normal part of aging.

Education is the most important step to being ready to prevent a fall. Evidence-based falls prevention programs will help older adults learn how to address their fear of falling and what they can do to improve or sustain their strength.

Stay safe with these tips!

1. Find a good balance and exercise program. Look to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals. Find a program you like and take a friend.
2. Talk to your health care provider. Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling. Share your history of recent falls.
3. Talk to your family members. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue.
4. Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
5. Keep your home safe. Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting, make stairs safe, and install grab bars in key areas.
6. Talk to your family members. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue.

For more about fall prevention watch this short video:

Today is the 9th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day.

Across the country, Falls Free® Coalition partners are hosting classes and seminars, performing thousands of falls risk screenings, and educating older adults about this year’s theme: Ready, Steady, Balance: Prevent Falls in 2016.

Use this link to watch a new video from NCOA, You have the Power to Prevent a Fall. The video highlights the value of these programs and the successes older adults have had taking control of their falls risks.