Fall Prevention
“Leaves are supposed to fall. People aren’t.” – Ohio Department of Aging
A fall that causes injury can keep you away from living your best life. That’s why it’s important to take steps to prevent it from happening to you. You can lower your risk by talking to your PCP if you have concerns about falling and making some changes to your home and lifestyle.
Discuss concerns with your PCP
If you fall, worry about falling, or feel unsteady, ask your PCP or pharmacist to review all the medicines you take, even over-the-counter medicines. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make you sleepy or dizzy and can cause you to fall. And ask about taking vitamin D supplements to improve bone, muscle, and nerve health. Learn more about falling concerns.
Improve your balance and strength
There are exercises you can do that improve balance, make your legs stronger and lower your chances of falling. Tai Chi and yoga are two examples. There are also several simple sit and stand exercises you can do at home. All you need is a sturdy chair and a table. Other helpful exercises include lunges, standing heel raises, side-stepping and backwards walking. Ask your PCP or healthcare provider about the best type of exercise program for you.
Check your feet and eyes
Once a year, make an appointment with your eye doctor, and update your eyeglasses, if needed. Conditions like glaucoma or cataracts can limit your vision and increase your chances of falling. Also, have your healthcare provider check your feet once a year. Discuss proper footwear and ask whether you should see a foot specialist.
Make home a safer home
There are a few easy things you can do around the house to lower your risk of falling:
- Declutter your living space and secure cords to reduce tripping hazards.
- Organize things on the same floor of the house; Keep what you need every day within reach.
- Ensure carpets have proper traction and don't roll up at the edges.
- Use nightlights to safely move in the dark, especially in stairwells and along the path to the bathroom.
- Install handrails in your bathroom and consider a raised toilet seat.
Relieve aches and pains at home with Sword Health
Combining licensed physical therapists with easy-to-use technology, Sword Health can help you overcome joint, back or muscle pain from the comfort of your own home. Sword is just as effective as in-person physical therapy and available to you at no additional cost.
Learn more at Join.SwordHealth.com/MedMutual/Register.