One out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
Each year, nearly 319,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries.
What Can Increase Your Risk?
Falls usually do not have just one cause. Several factors can increase your risk, including:
- Lower-body weakness
- Difficulty with walking or balance
- Vision or hearing problems
- Foot pain or improper footwear
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Certain prescription or over-the-counter medications
- Broken or uneven steps
- Loose rugs, cords, or clutter in walkways
Make Your Home Safer
A few small changes can make a big difference.
In the Bathoom
- Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers.
- Use non-slip mats in tubs and showers.
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Around the Home
- Remove clutter from hallways, stairs, and walking paths.
- Secure or remove loose throw rugs.
- Make sure rooms, hallways, entrances, and stairways are well lit.
- Install handrails on both sides of staircases whenever possible.
- Keep electrical cords away from walking areas.
Outside
- Watch for uneven sidewalks, pavement, curbs, and steps.
- Use handrails when available.
- Make sure outdoor entrances and walkways have adequate lighting.
Other Recommendations:
Take Care of Yourself
- Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal fall risk, especially if you have fallen before.
- Ask your provider to review your medications, including over-the-counter medicines, since some medications may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or balance problems.
- Wear supportive, properly fitting shoes with low heels and non-slip soles.
Remember: Falls Are Preventable
Taking steps to reduce your risk of falling can help you stay active, independent, and safe.
This September, take a few minutes to look around your home, talk with your healthcare provider, and address potential fall hazards before an emergency happens.
Local resources. We are truly fortunate in the Green Valley area; in that we have an organization called Green Valley Assistance Services (VAS) who partner with our Santa Rita Fire Corp volunteers through the SHIM Program (Safety and Health in Motion). A nurse from VAS will screen for any medical conditions that can contribute to falls and a Fire Corp member will perform an environmental assessment of the home. Visits and assessments are free, and information will be provided to you regarding your fall risk and things you can do to improve your personal safety. Please visit the VAS website at: SHiM® - A Fall Prevention Program - Valley Assistance Services, for more specific information on what a home visit involves.
Another amazing resource we have in our community is our lockbox program. This program is run by Santa Rita Fire Corp volunteers and involves installing a lock box near your front door that is securely locked and has your home keys in it. The fire department can access the lockbox with a special key that only they have. If you fall and call the fire department, they can enter your home quickly via your keys in the lockbox, which not only gets help to you but saves your door from being destroyed. Please call (520) 393-7505 for more information.
Additional Resources:
CDC STEADI – Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries
Fall-risk screening tools, prevention resources, and educational materials.
https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/
Pima Council on Aging – Falls Free Pima
Local fall-prevention programs, education, and community resources for Pima County residents.
Phone: 520-790-7262
https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/falls-free/
Pima Council on Aging – Healthy Living Classes
Classes that may include balance, strength, flexibility, and healthy-aging programs.
https://pcoa.org/ways-we-help/healthy-living-classes/