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How To Prevent Falls — A Common, But Dangerous Problem

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Exercising is a good way for senior to reduce the risk of falling.

Falling is a common problem in senior adults that can have serious consequences, including loss of independence, brain traumatic injuries and even death. 

LaTrica Hicks, a geriatric education coordinator with Parkland Health & Hospital System, says commons reasons for falls include clutter in a person's home, especially throw rugs or other items on the floor.

Other risks come from symptoms of aging, including deteriorating bone health, balance and gait, depth perception and eyesight. Also, loss of hearing affects an individual's awareness of their surroundings and that increases a lack of balance.

Hicks says reducing the likelihood of falls begins with education along with preventative steps seniors and their caregiver can take.

Six steps to reducing falls

The National Council on Aging recommends taking the following stepsto reduce falls:

1. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe.

Ask your older loved one if they’re concerned about falling. Many older adults recognize that falling is a risk, but they believe it won’t happen to them or they won’t get hurt — even if they’ve already fallen in the past. A good place to start is by sharing NCOA’s Debunking the Myths of Older Adult Falls. If they’re concerned about falling, dizziness, or balance, suggest that they discuss it with their health care provider who can assess their risk and suggest programs or services that could help.

2. Discuss their current health conditions.

Find out if your older loved one is experiencing any problems with managing their own health. Are they having trouble remembering to take their medications — or are they experiencing side effects? Is it getting more difficult for them to do things they used to do easily?

Also, make sure they’re taking advantage of all the preventive benefits now offered under Medicare, such as the annual wellness visit. Encourage them to speak openly with their health care provider about all of their concerns.

3. Ask about their last eye checkup.

If your older loved one wears glasses, make sure they have a current prescription and they’re using the glasses as advised by their eye doctor.

Remember that using tint-changing lenses can be hazardous when going from bright sun into darkened buildings and homes. A simple strategy is to change glasses upon entry or stop until their lenses adjust.

Bifocals also can be problematic on stairs, so it’s important to be cautious. For those already struggling with low vision, consult with a low-vision specialist for ways to make the most of their eyesight.

4. Notice if they’re holding onto walls, furniture or someone else when walking or if they appear to have difficulty walking or arising from a chair.

These are all signs that it might be time to see a physical therapist. A trained physical therapist can help your older loved one improve their balance, strength and gait through exercise. They might also suggest a cane or walker — and provide guidance on how to use these aids. Make sure to follow their advice. Poorly fit aids actually can increase the risk of falling.

5. Talk about their medications.

If your older loved one is having a hard time keeping track of medicines or is experiencing side effects, encourage them to discuss their concerns with their doctor and pharmacist. Suggest that they have their medications reviewed each time they get a new prescription.

Also, beware of non-prescription medications that contain sleep aids—including painkillers with “PM” in their names. These can lead to balance issues and dizziness. If your older loved one is having sleeping problems, encourage them to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about safer alternatives.

6. Do a walk-through safety assessment of their home.

There are many simple and inexpensive ways to make a home safer. For professional assistance, consult an occupational therapist. Here are some examples:

  • Lighting: Increase lighting throughout the house, especially at the top and bottom of stairs. Ensure that lighting is readily available when getting up in the middle of the night.
  • Stairs: Make sure there are two secure rails on all stairs.
  • Bathrooms: Install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. Make sure they’re installed where your older loved one would actually use them. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and hand-held shower.

Source: National Council on Agingwww.ncoa.org

Upcoming fall prevention workshops

Workshops are held at Parkland Community Oriented Primary Care (COPC) health centers in the area.

  • Sept. 22 at the Hatcher Station Health Center, 4600 Scyene Rd., Dallas 75210, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
  • Sept. 22 at the Bluitt-Flowers Health Center, 303 E. Overton Rd., Dallas 75216,  9 a.m. – noon.
  • Sept. 28 at Parkland Geriatrics Center, 1936 Amelia Court, 1st floor, Dallas 75235, 8 – 10 a.m.
Sam Baker is KERA's senior editor and local host for Morning Edition. The native of Beaumont, Texas, also edits and produces radio commentaries and Vital Signs, a series that's part of the station's Breakthroughs initiative. He also was the longtime host of KERA 13’s Emmy Award-winning public affairs program On the Record. He also won an Emmy in 2008 for KERA’s Sharing the Power: A Voter’s Voice Special, and has earned honors from the Associated Press and the Public Radio News Directors Inc.