Fall Prevention for Older Adults
Reducing Risks for Falling
Vision
Environment
- Improving Independence in the Home Environment: Assessment and Intervention
- Accessible Housing
- Remove area rugs or place a non-slip insert beneath them to prevent movement.
- Pick up items within the home that can cause someone to trip.
- Make safety improvements to your home, such as grab bars, handrails and improved lighting.
- Keep walking surfaces—both indoors and outdoors—clear and dry.
Assistive Devices
- Buy pair of sturdy, supportive shoes of canvas or leather that hold snug to the foot with laces or Velcro. The heels should be low and the soles should be flexible and not so thick that you can’t feel the ground.
- Gait training (or walking) and training with assistive devices (e.g., cane, walker) can be helpful to improve balance and confidence. Ask your healthcare provider about prescribing physical therapy.
Fear
- Fear of falling can be protective, causing an older person to become more cautious with their everyday activities; but, fear of falling can also be harmful and is associated with a loss of confidence in being able to move about safely.
Habits
- If you have concerns about your balance, contact your health care provider. Regular exercise with balance and strength training can help you to reduce your risk and continue to lead an active life.
Medications
- If you take four or more medications—including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbs—you are at increased risk for falling. Therefore, write down a complete list of your medications and review it with your health care provider at least once a year to see if something could cause dizziness or unsteadiness.
- Always know what medications you are taking and be aware of any side effects they may cause.
- Use medications only as prescribed.
- Even ONE medication prescribed at a dose that is too high can increase your risk for falling.
- Studies* have shown that certain medications and medications of the same drug class may increase your risk for falling:
- Sleeping medications
- Blood pressure medications
- Mood medications
- Medicines: Use Them Safely (National Institute on Aging Age Page)
