Fall prevention

From AlaskaClinic

Dangers around the home cause as many as 20,000 deaths, 7 million disabling injuries, and 20 million medical visits in the U.S. each year, according to the Home Safety Council. Falls are the most common fatal injury in the home - particularly among older people.

Falls are especially dangerous for seniors. The CDC says more than one-third of adults 65 and older fall each year. And the consequences are great: Seniors suffer an estimated 360,00-480,000 fall-related fractures each year; in 2002, almost 13,000 people 65 and older died from fall-related injuries.

Researchers say the risks of seniors falling are greater if they have lower body weakness, problems with walking and balance, or are taking four or more medications. To reduce their risk, seniors should get regular exercise to increase their lower body strength and improve balance. And their doctor or pharmacist should review and revise, if necessary, their medications to reduce side effects and interactions.

WebMD offers a list that contains several helpful tips to minimize risk in the home:

• Stairways should have handrails on both sides.
• Attach safety treads to steps.
• Remove tripping hazards such as throw rugs, furniture, and clutter from walkways.
• Use self-adhesive non-skid mats or safety treads in bathtubs, showers, and pools.
• Use non-skid rugs on bathroom floors.
• Use non-skid pads under rugs on bare floors.
• Install grab bars on both sides of toilets and bathtubs, especially on those used by seniors.
• Improve lighting
• Wear shoes inside. Avoid walking barefoot or in slippers.