Visiting Nurse Association

Fall Prevention

The Visiting Nurse Association is part of the Sure Steps community falls prevention project.Sure Steps is designed to increase everyone’s awareness of the serious effects of falls, and to promote fall  prevention measures.  Falls put you at risk of serious injury.  Prevent falls by learning more about your  personal fall risk and by implementing fall prevention measures. Falls do not have to be an inevitable consequence of aging- many falls can be prevented.  An investment in fall prevention is an investment in your independence!

Information about Fall Prevention and resources is available on the Sure Steps website: www.LivableCommunity.org/suresteps

Implementing a falls prevention plan includes:

Talk with a health care professional about falls and falls prevention.  What medications are you taking that may increase your risk of falling?  What health conditions do you have that may increase your risk of falling?  How can you minimize these risks?  What symptoms should you watch for and report?  What precautions do you need to take?

Have your vision and hearing checked regularly.  Keep your eye glass prescription current.  Consider using single vision lenses for walking and having a separate pair of glasses for reading.

Keep Moving.  Walking and physical exercise that improves strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility are very important in fall prevention.  If you are able to leave your home consider a group exercise activity.   If fear of falling keeps you from being active, sign up for “A Matter of Balance” class (See Sure Steps website for details) or ask your health care practitioner for a physical therapy referral.

 

Take good care of your feet and wear sensible shoes.  Keep toenails at a comfortable length and get care for any problem causing sores or foot pain. 

 

Take a close look at your environment.  Remove home hazards such as clutter, cords, coffee tables, etc. in or near walkways.  Be proactive and implement changes now to improve the safety in your home.  Use at least 60 Watt lights in all areas of your home. Install nightlights, secure or remove loose rugs, use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.  Have grab bars installed near the toilet and tub or shower.  Make arrangements to store all clothing, food, dishes, and other necessities within easy reach.