Fall prevention may not seem like a lively topic, but it's important. As you get older, physical changes and health conditions — and sometimes the medications used to treat those conditions — make falls more likely. In fact, falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Still, fear of falling doesn't need to rule your life.
Instead, consider six simple fall-prevention strategies:
1. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss medications, heath history or current health conditions that may make you more prone to a fall.
2. Keep Moving! Physical activity can go a long way in fall prevention and activities like walking or water workouts can increase strength, balance and flexibility.
3. Wear sensible shoes. Sturdy shoes with nonskid soles will aid in fall prevention. Ditch the high heels, floppy slippers or shoes with slick soles!
4. Remove home hazards. Take a look around your home and ensure all rugs are secure, electric cords are not blocking walkways and wooden floorboards are not loose.
5. Light up your living space! Keep your home brightly lit to avoid tripping on objects that are hard to see. Use night lights and store flashlights in easy-to-find places.
6. Use assistive devices. Utilize hand rails for both sides of stairways, nonslip treads for wooden steps and grab bars for the shower or tub.