WHAT ARE SOME FALL PREVENTION MEASURES THAT I CAN TAKE?

95% of hip fractures and the majority of brain injuries in the elderly are due to falls. Neither of these outcomes sounds enjoyable. Unfortunately, the risk of falls increases with age.

How can we avoid falls? (DISCLAIMER: The data presented here is for educational purposes only. It's essential to consult with your doctor before applying any of the information presented here to yourself or others. Each case requires individualized attention from a qualified healthcare provider.)

NCOA Falls Free Coalition Video

 How to Prevent Falling:

  • Risk Assessment: If you've experienced two falls this year or one traumatic fall, you're at a high risk of falling again.

  • Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls.

  • Regular Exams: Ensure you undergo routine vision, hearing, and foot exams to address any impairments that may increase fall risk.

  • Home Safety: Keep your home free of tripping hazards and consider installing night-lights to improve visibility, particularly in high-traffic areas.

  • Consult a Physician: Seek guidance from a physician specializing in fall prevention ideally before experiencing a fall, but at the very least after one occurs, to assess and mitigate your risk factors effectively.

This last point is very important.

It's essential to consult a physician, particularly one trained in fall prevention care, after experiencing a fall. While physical therapy is often essential, the CDC's STEADI guidelines emphasize the importance of physician involvement in coordinating fall prevention care. Many medical issues contribute to falls, requiring timely intervention. 

Some primary care physicians may not be trained in managing patients at risk of falls, which is why the CDC has developed a STEADI algorithm to assist physicians in providing appropriate care.

Dr. Atanelov, MD

Medical Director Steady Strides: Fall Prevention and Stroke Rehab Medical Institute

Below is a List of Educational Links for Preventing Falls:

  • Webinar by Dr. Atanelov and Dr. Aggrawal at Johns Hopkins on Preventing Falls: Gain valuable insights from experts at Johns Hopkins through their webinar dedicated to preventing falls.

  • CDC STEADI Toolkit for Physicians and Pharmacists: Access the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's STEADI toolkit, tailored specifically for physicians and pharmacists, providing comprehensive resources and guidelines for fall prevention.

  • Falls in Nursing Homes: Learn about falls in nursing homes, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and best practices for ensuring resident safety.

  • Falls in Hospitals: Learn about falls in nursing homes, including risk factors, prevention strategies, and best practices for ensuring resident safety.

  • NIH Senior Health - Falls and Older Adults: Access educational materials focused on falls and older adults, including:

  • Mayo Clinic - Fall Prevention Guide: Access Mayo Clinic's fall prevention guide, offering valuable insights into understanding fall risks, creating a safe environment, and implementing strategies to prevent falls.

  • National Council on Aging - Fall Prevention Resources: Explore fall prevention resources provided by the National Council on Aging, featuring information on fall risk assessments, home safety tips, and evidence-based programs for older adults.

  • MedlinePlus - Falls Prevention: Navigate MedlinePlus's falls prevention section for reliable information on risk factors, prevention strategies, and assistance for caregivers and older adults.

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