Tips for reducing the risk of falling

Falls are a serious issue for people over the age of 65. Every year, about one in three seniors fall at least once and 56 percent of falls involving seniors lead to fractures.

A further statistic is worth considering: 30 to 50 percent of falls involving seniors are caused by environmental factors such as uneven surfaces, poor lighting or slippery floors. It follows that falls can often be prevented through taking proactive steps to reduce falling hazards in your immediate environment. Seniors can reduce their risk of falling at home by doing the following:

• Make sure all rooms have adequate lighting
• Install handrails in baths and showers
• Install a handrail on stairs that extends beyond the top and bottom steps
• Keep frequently used items in easy-to-reach places
• Avoid clutter
• Don’t keep electric cords where they can be tripped over

And, naturally, staying limber also plays a key role in reducing the risk of falling. In addition to eating well and staying active, seniors should consider making balance exercises part of their daily routine.

Finally, people who fall frequently should consider whether the effects of the medication they’re taking are contributing to this problem. This should be discussed with one’s doctor. Seniors might also want to discuss with their doctor what vitamins or supplements, such as calcium or Vitamin D, can reduce their risk of falling.