Fall Prevention
What Challenges Do We Face as We Age?
Unintentional falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among Florida residents ages 65 years and older. In 2024, 4,046 older adults ages 65+ were fatally injured in a fall. In addition to deaths and injuries and the costs associated with them, falls can have many negative consequences for older adults, including:
- Fear of falling again
- Forced relocation from the home
- Loss of independence
- Stress in the family
By reducing their chance of a fall, older adults can stay independent and have an increased quality of life.
What can you do to prevent a fall?
Talk to Your Doctor
- Ask your doctor or healthcare provider to evaluate your risk for falling and talk with them about specific things you can do.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines to see if any might make you dizzy or sleepy. This should include prescription medicines and over-the-counter medicines.
- Ask your doctor or healthcare provider about taking vitamin D supplements.
Do Strength and Balance Exercises
- Do exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance.
Have Your Eyes Checked
- Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year and be sure to update your eyeglasses if needed.
- If you have bifocal or progressive lenses, you may want to get a pair of glasses with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking. Sometimes these types of lenses can make things seem closer or farther away than they really are.
My Fall Free Plan PRINTABLE DOWNLOAD
Make Your Home Safer
- Evaluate things you could trip over such as rugs, clutter, and furniture legs.
- Add grab bars inside and outside your tub or shower and next to the toilet.
- Put railings on both sides of your stairs.
- Make sure your home has lots of light by adding more lighting and/or brighter light bulbs.
- Call Satellite Beach Fire Department Community Medic Program for a FREE, In-Home Fall Prevention Assessment. (321) 773-4405 x302
Join A Matter of Balance Class - Click on the link below to find out more!
A Matter of Balance
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