What do Hillary Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, the Pope, Sonia Sotomayor and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith have in common? They have all sustained broken bones or other injuries from a fall this summer. And they are not alone. In North Carolina, falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries and the second- leading cause of nonfatal injuries for people 65 and older. That’s why Gov. Bev Perdue has declared the first week of fall, Sept. 20-26, to be Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
Here are 5 simple things that you can do to help prevent a fall:
1) Exercise regularly. Research shows that strengthening your legs, improving your balance and increasing your overall mobility are the most effective actions you can take to prevent falls.
2) Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines. Make sure to have prescriptions and any over-the-counter medications reviewed to reduce side effects and interactions.
3) Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.
4) Make sure your home is well-lit. As people get older, they need brighter lights to see well.
5) Reduce the hazards in your home that can lead to falls. Install grab bars near the toilet and around the shower or bath stall, and put handrails in stairwells or other risk areas. Use a walking aid if it will help your mobility. But if you do use a walking aid (such as a cane or walker), work with a physical therapist or other health care provider to learn how to use it safely.