How can older adults prevent falls?

October 31, 2012 Most falls are preventable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One out of three adults age 65 and older falls each year. Among that age group, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths. They are also the most common cause of nonfatal injuries. 20 to 30 percent of people who fall suffer moderate to severe lacerations, hip fractures, or head traumas. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. Most fractures among adults are caused by falls, including fractures of the spine, hip, forearm, leg, ankle, pelvis, upper arm, and hand. To reduce your chances of falling, you can:

• Exercise regularly to increase your leg strength and improve your balance. Do weight bearing exercises such as yoga.
• Have your medicines checked to be sure they do not cause dizziness or drowsiness. Be sure that you get adequate calcium and vitamin D. Get screened and, if needed, treated for osteoporosis.
• Get your eyes checked yearly and update your glasses to maximize your vision. Consider getting a pair of glasses with single vision distance lenses for some activities such as walking.
• Make your home safe by improving the lighting, adding grab bars in the bathroom, adding railing on stairs, and reducing tripping hazards.

If you or someone you love suffered a catastrophic injury in a fall that wasn’t your fault, the Ohio personal injury lawyers at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy may be able to help.

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