Preventing Falls: Tips To Keep You On Your Feet

November 2022

Each year millions of Americans, especially older adults, go to the emergency department after an injury from a fall. Falls can cause serious injuries (e.g., back fractures, hip fractures, head trauma). Some people are never able to return to their way of life before an injury. The first step is talking with your healthcare provider about your potential for falling. Prevention plans can be developed for your safety.

The National Institute on Aging reports the following current information about falls and balance:

  • The biggest risk factor for being injured from a fall is being age 65 or older. People younger than that may be at increased risk of falling when they engage in certain activities, like sports, or because of certain health conditions. But children and young adults typically fall without being seriously injured.
  • People with weak bones are more likely to break a bone during a fall. As one ages, bones become less dense and get thinner and spongier.
  • Problems with foot pain or wearing unsafe shoes such as flip flops and slippers with little or no support are hazards that can be prevented.
  • Risk factors include medications that cause dizziness or decrease in balance. Some people have a drop in blood pressure when they stand up, making them feel unsteady on their feet.
  • Quick summation: With aging, eyesight, hearing, and reflexes may not be as sharp as they once were. Those changes can make it more likely to stumble and fall. For older adults who have already fallen, the risk of falling again is much greater. Hips and legs can become weaker making it harder to walk. People can develop poor posture or have spinal degeneration making it harder to stand erect. Our ability to lift our feet decreases and we can stumble. It takes longer to react when something is in our way causing us to fall.

What can you do?

Involve yourself in these Wise Choices of the National Institute on Aging

  • Talk openly with your healthcare provider about falls. Your doctor can help you make a personalized plan for preventing falls and may encourage you to work with a physical therapist to increase strength and improve balance. They can also prescribe devices like special footwear or a walking cane.
  • Find out about the side effects of any medicine you take.
  • Stay physically active to improve your balance and strength. Check web sites listed below for suggestions about exercising to prevent falls.
  • Have your eyes and hearing checked regularly.
  • See your healthcare provider about any foot problems. Make sure to discuss proper footwear.
  • Make your home safer. Remove things you can trip over from stairs and walkways. Have grab bars and non-slip mats in bathrooms.
  • Hold on to handrails when using stairs.

Sources: National Institute on Aging web sites

Health Notes Author

Evelyn Ames