5 ways older adults can prevent falls and stay out of the ER
In this article:
- According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 14 million adults ages 65 and older report falling every year.
- Falls are currently the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults, with statistics continuing to trend upward.
- Watch the short video in this blog for home safety tips from a Providence Swedish emergency medicine physician.
Falls are among the most common injuries treated in emergency departments for older adults. While a fall can happen quickly, the effects can be serious — from bruises and broken bones to a loss of confidence or independence. The good news: Many falls can be prevented with a few simple precautions.
Lucy Goodson, M.D., an emergency physician at Providence Swedish Redmond, shares five easy steps older adults and their families can take to lower fall risk and help keep loved ones on their feet.
- Wear supportive, non-slip shoes. Choose sturdy footwear with good traction, and avoid loose slippers or walking around the house in socks.
- Brighten your home. Add night lights in hallways to improve visibility in bathrooms and other areas used after dark.
- Remove trip hazards. Keep rugs, cords and clutter off the floor and out of walkways.
- Keep moving. Balance and strength exercises can help improve stability and dramatically lower the risk of falling.
- Review medications and schedule yearly vision checks. Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, and changes in vision can make it harder to spot hazards.
Small changes can make a big difference. Taking these few simple precautions can help keep you on your feet and out of the ER. Watch the video below to hear more from Dr. Goodson.
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