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Today is “Fall Prevention Awareness Day.” Every September, on the first day of fall, everyone is encouraged to host and promote activities to help older adults become more mindful of slip, trip and fall prevention tips. It’s also a chance for you to put together a fall prevention program for your home.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
And according to the National Council on Aging, falls, with or without injury, also carry a heavy quality of life impact.
Let’s look at the three major components of any slip, trip and fall prevention program on Fall Prevention Awareness Day.
In a study titled “Evidence-based Practices to Reduce Falls and Fall-related Injuries Among Older Adults” researchers concluded that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to prevent falls. But a critical part of maintaining balance and mobility as you age is exercise.
Another study found that there are several key components to a falls prevention exercise program.
Participating in a fall prevention program like STEADI also can decrease your risk, while keeping you safe and independent.
Home modification is changing the environment to make daily activities easier, reduce accidents, and support independent living. This includes:
The National Council on Aging provides resources that will help you to decrease your risk of falling at home.
Other potential hazards include:
The biggest preventative for any of these environmental hazards or fall risks is to be extra careful and having an astute awareness of your surroundings.
Several classes of drugs have been associated with an increased risk of falling. Drugs that have been associated with falls include:
The drugs can cause dizziness, drowsiness and blurred vision.
Medication adherence is an important part of any health plan. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the percentage of Americans taking more than five prescription medications has nearly tripled in the past 20 years.
You should talk to your doctor about ways to put together a safe medication management plan.
In the end, a good slip, trip and fall prevention program is about reducing the risk. If you’re unsure where to start, talk to your doctor. Another important element to fall prevention is staying ahead of any potential health issues. Our “Guide To Health Screenings For Men and Women” can help you determine which tests you need and when.