Fall prevention tips can help prevent serious injuries and preserve independence. Addressing home environment modifications, regular physical training, and proactive medical management can reduce the rate of falls in older adults living in the community by up to 38%.
Below, we will walk through why fall prevention matters so much, practical tips to prevent falls, and where a specialist such as a podiatrist may fit in. Contact Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute in Austin, Texas to learn how a podiatrist can help you.
September is Falls Prevention Month. This topic hits close to home for me after my 87-year-old father, who was on blood thinners at the time, sustained what he deemed an insignificant fall after getting up from the couch, slipping and landing hard on his bottom. Aside from a bruised bum and pride, he didn’t see any other obvious injuries or side effects, so he didn’t inform his healthcare provider or family.
It wasn’t until several days later that he started experiencing weakness and needed to use a walker. My father, who had been going to the gym daily and walking unassisted, suddenly became so deconditioned that he could barely stand up.
The fall he sustained had caused small vessels in his brain to stretch and snap, and since he was on blood thinners, the bleeding continued between his brain and skull. Without any room to escape, the pressure was applied directly to parts of his brain, affecting his strength, mobility, and ultimately his speech.
Fortunately for my family, it was discovered in time, and after undergoing surgery to remove the blood and stop the bleeding, he made a full recovery after months of physical therapy and rehabilitation.
But not everyone is so fortunate.
According to the National Institute on Aging, more than 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year, making it the leading cause of injuries for this age group. Around 20 to 30 percent of these people suffer moderate to severe injuries. Broken bones or head injuries are among the most common injuries associated with falls in older adults.
Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in the emergency room yearly.
In older adults, medical conditions, medicines, and sensory, motor, and balance problems all contribute to fall risk. Hearing loss, vision problems, and reduced strength can also place people at a higher risk of falling.
Regardless of age, implementing a falls prevention program is key to reducing the risks of these injuries. Here are some tips and things to consider to avoid falls:
Wear shoes that are non-skid with a firm sole that provides stable arch support. Choose shoes that fit correctly, and low-heeled shoes whenever possible. Avoid flip-flops, socks, or slick soles that can cause you to slip, stumble, and fall.
Remove any tables, plant stands, or chairs from high-traffic areas. Remove electrical cords, hoses, or boxes that can pose a trip hazard. Secure loose rugs with double-sided tape.
Maintain good lighting throughout areas you frequent so as not to trip on hard-to-see objects or where there are uneven surfaces. Turn on the lights before walking into any room or stairs.
This is perhaps the biggest struggle for many of our patients. Many view them as a sign of weakness or loss of independence, but in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Canes and walkers provide stability so that you may continue doing things in a safe manner.
Most falls happen in the bathroom, so install grab bars in bathrooms and showers or tubs. Always use handrails along stairs.
Part of the reason that doctors and therapists felt that my father had made such a remarkable recovery was that he had been so active before his injury.
Physical activity can provide you with strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility, thereby reducing the risk of falls, but should you sustain a fall, your chances of recovery are improved. Targeted exercises should be aimed at building postural stability and trunk rotation. If you are fearful of starting any activity or exercise, talk to your doctor.
Most importantly, follow up with your doctor for any falls or injuries. You should monitor any abnormal symptoms or side effects following a previous fall and seek immediate medical attention if necessary.
Tell your doctor or podiatrist if you have been feeling unstable or off-balance while standing. This can be due to medication side effects, low blood pressure, or balance problems. An annual medication review is also important, especially if you take multiple medications daily.
Shoe gear recommendations can be made, and an assessment to see if you qualify to see a physical therapist or occupational therapist to improve strength, stability, and coordination. Vision and hearing checks may also be needed since problems involving the inner ears can affect balance.
Fall risk assessment of your home can also be made by home health care services. A comfortable, supportive bed and a safer bathroom or home setup can help reduce household fall risk.
Call our office in Austin, Texas, at (512) 394-5108 or make an appointment online at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute if you have any of the above concerns either for you or your family members. We are here to keep you moving!
Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM
You can lower your fall risk by wearing supportive, non-slip shoes, keeping your home free of trip hazards, and staying physically active. Using assistive devices and having regular medical checkups can also help.
Falls become more common with age due to changes in balance, muscle strength, vision, and hearing. Certain medications and chronic health conditions can also affect balance. Addressing these risk factors early can help prevent injuries.
You should seek medical attention after any fall if you experience pain, dizziness, weakness, confusion, difficulty walking, or if you hit your head.
Yes. A podiatrist can evaluate your feet, gait, and balance and recommend appropriate footwear or orthotics. They may also identify foot conditions that may increase your risk of falling.
Shoes with non-slip soles, firm arch support, a secure fit, and a low heel are generally the best choice. Avoid flip-flops, slippery-soled shoes, or walking in socks on smooth floors, as these can increase the risk of slipping.
