IntroductionFalls are an everyday danger for seniors and people with conditions that make them prone to losing their balance or coordination. Stroke victims and people with multiple sclerosis or
osteoporosis are the most likely to have a serious fall. Significant injury and even death can result, as well as loss of independence.
What You Can Do
Engage in daily physical activity to keep muscle firm and to maintain a sense of physical balance. Consult your doctor if you feel dizzy or experience a loss of balance.
Get your hearing and eyesight checked yearly. Poor hearing or eyesight can increase your chances of having an accident resulting in a fall.
Understand the medications you're taking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether they can cause dizziness or other side effects. Sometimes, the interaction of two or more medications can cause dizziness and/or loss of balance.
Wear shoes that fit properly and have low heels. If you have calluses or corns, have them removed as soon as possible.
Install handrails in bathrooms and along stairways. Use grab handles and non-skidding mats inside and outside your bath/shower, near toilets and sinks. Also use shower chairs and bath benches if appropriate. Hire someone to make repairs and adjustment around the house if you're not able to.
Ensure all areas of your home are well lit and free from clutter. Install light switches at both ends of your stairways and hallways and put a night lamp by your bedside. Use remote light switches in your bedroom for times when you have to get up in the night.
Renovate slippery floor surfaces with new carpeting or flooring that provides a surer footing. Repair loose carpet and uneven floor areas.
Arrange furniture and electric cords so they are clear of walking areas and provide you with enough room to pass through easily.
Keep walking areas well lit outside the house. Use motion-sensor lights outside your doorway to help you see where you're walking when you're coming home at night.
Walk with a cane or walker if needed. Walk on the grass if the sidewalk is slippery with ice, snow or rain. Sprinkle salt or kitty litter on slippery steps, sidewalks and driveways.
Organize your kitchen so that things you use regularly are well within reach. Use a step ladder or stool to access things kept out of immediate reach.
If you're feeling dizzy or weak, contact a friend or loved one for immediate assistance and then see your doctor.
Keep a cordless phone and a functional flashlight near your bed on/in the night table.
Talk to your doctor about vitamin D and calcium supplementation.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for financial help to purchase an assistive device, such as a cane or walker. Consult your doctor and/or contact Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) at 1-800-310-0000, then 780-427-0731, or at www.seniors.gov.ab.ca/AADL.
Further Resources
Visit Health in Action's Web page on fall prevention at www.health-in-action.org/node/279.
