Put Your Best Foot Forward-Fall Prevention and You

Sue Haviland

Imagine this: it is a beautiful Marco Island morning, and you look forward to the arrival of your long-time friend from up north. A lovely three-day visit is in store and as you tidy up the house, your foot catches on that throw rug you have been meaning to discard, and you take a tumble. A serious one.

You are now among the one in four older adults each year who fall. Some falls are serious, some are not, but nearly 20% of falls result in moderate to serious injury and are the leading cause of death due to injury for older adults.

You’re no doubt familiar with the term aging in place. According to the National Institute on Aging, the concept relies on balancing personal autonomy with the right mix of health, safety, and community.

Wherever we call home—our own house, a family member’s home, or a senior living community - and whether you are a seasonal or year-round resident here in this area - we all want to age safely in place. Yet even the most carefully crafted aging-in-place plan can be derailed by a single fall.

Older adults may fall for many reasons, but falling is not a normal part of aging. Falls do not happen simply because someone is getting older, and practical steps can help reduce the chances of a fall. In this two-part series, we will highlight some common risk factors and share easy-to-implement tips and strategies.

Medication side effects are a common fall risk. The greater the number of prescription and over-the-counter medications someone takes, the greater the chance of side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, impaired walking, and slower reaction time. At fall prevention seminars, I ask how many attendees have a complete, up-to-date list of their medications and dosages. Many hands go up—but when I ask how many have that list with them, the hands go down. Always carry a current list of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, as well as supplements. Create a list on paper and carry it in your wallet or handbag, or save the information in the Notes app on your phone, where it can be easily updated as needed. Take this list to every doctor’s appointment, from primary care to specialist. Keep track of any side effects and share them with your physician. Talk with your pharmacist about any concerns you have and be sure you know the correct dosage, when to take the medication (am/pm), with or without food, and how long you should expect to need each medication.

Medical Conditions

Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, stroke, neuropathy, vestibular (inner ear) disorder, and low blood pressure could all contribute to the risk of falling. Be aware of your own risk factors, keeping in mind that everyone is different. Discuss any concerns you have with your physician. Would a balance assessment offer helpful feedback? Your physician may be able to suggest a physical therapist who can conduct such an assessment. Consider an annual eye exam as well as an annual hearing assessment.

Your Home

Home. It’s the place we gather with family and friends, celebrate holidays, and create cherished memories. It’s also where 60% of falls occur.

Throw rugs, loose electrical cords on the floor, poorly lit rooms and hallways (especially overnight), and yes, even our beloved pets can all be hazards and increase the risk of falls. Perhaps you have a friend or family member who “furniture surfs” around the house- relying on the placement of a chair or table to provide stability while moving from room to room. Keep in mind the needs of older adults who may visit your home frequently.

Many of these challenges can be remedied easily.

Remove throw rugs.

Be sure Scooby’s water and food bowls are not placed in a traffic area.

Secure electrical cords.

Consider motion sensor night lights. Proper lighting is key, particularly in the bedroom, bathroom, and on stairs. No one should have to cross a dark room to use the bathroom at night.

Handrails (professionally installed) inside stairways and outdoor steps.

70% of falls that occur in the home happen in the bathroom. Grab bars (professionally installed) can help reduce this risk.

A walker, cane, or other assistive device may be useful for someone who requires extra support or help with balance. (More on assistive devices and proper use in the next segment).

Do not forget about those who visit your home. Do you need to provide additional support or assistance for guests and family members?

Remember, fall prevention is crucial to a successful aging in place plan. Be aware of your risk factors and take steps today to age in place in this wonderful community we call home.

Sue Haviland is a Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS), Published Author, and Speaker She is the Concierge Director at Senior Concierge Professionals Reach Sue at 443-677-0389 or sue@scpnaples.com.