Fall Prevention Reduces Critical Injuries
Falls are a frequent but often preventable cause of injury for people of all ages. As the caregiver of young children or elderly loved ones, you worry about them falling. We are here to support you with education on precautions and preventive measures to keep your kids and older adults safe.
Risk Factors for Falls
Medical, physical and environmental problems can all lead to falls. Stay ahead of these known factors that often contribute to falls.
Home Hazards
About half of all falls happen at home and result from:
- Pets
- Rugs
- Uneven flooring
- Carpets
- Clutter
- Poor lighting
Improper Footwear
Be careful wearing footwear that leaves you unstable, such as:
- High heels
- Slippers
- Shoes with smooth or slick soles
- Socks
- Stockings
If you wear tennis shoes, be sure your laces are tied.
Poor Vision
It’s important to get your vision checked at least once a year. Changes in vision can lead to falls. Impaired depth perception makes it difficult to determine where a curb or stair is and where to place your foot.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Falling may be a symptom of another condition. Frequent falls may indicate:
- Balance disorder
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Foot pain
- Vitamin D deficiency
Medications
If you have fallen, make sure to review your medications with a pharmacist or health care provider to ensure there are no interactions with the medications you are taking.