10 Tips for Preventing Indoor Falls

According the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, one out of four adults who is sixty-five years and older trips and falls. In fact, falls are responsible for the most injuries and fatalities among seniors. Don’t fear- the good news is that falls can easily be prevented with just a few easy-to-remember tips! 

1. Remove Clutter

​Be aware of your surroundings. Remove all clutter from your pathways—including throw rugs and electrical cords. Arrange furniture so that you always have a clear walking path.

2. Use Handrails 

​Install sturdy handrails on your stairs so that you or a loved one will have something to keep you steady as you walk up or down a staircase. To prevent falls in the bathroom, install grab bars in the shower or tub or use a shower seat with a hand-held shower head.

3. Smart Organization

Rearrange the contents of your cupboards to be within easy reach so that you won’t have to strain to reach a kitchen item that you use on a daily basis. NEVER stand on a chair to reach something high.

4. Great Lighting is Key

Make sure that your lightbulbs are bright enough so that you won’t be stumbling around in dim light. At night time, use night lights in your bedroom and bathroom and be sure to turn on the lights if you get up at night.

5. Don't Rush

​Take your time. Don’t rush to answer the phone or door, but instead, take time to carefully and safely get to your destination. If you feel dizzy, stand up slowly. It’s also a good idea to sit on the edge of the bed before standing up when you first wake up.

​6. The Type of Shoes that You Wear is Important

​Wear well-fitted, non-slip shoes with low heels and good support. Make sure laces are always tied and short enough to prevent tripping. Don’t walk in your socks because socks have no traction and they make it easy to fall when walking on tile. 

​7. Keep Track of Medicine Side Effects

​Have your doctor or pharmacist review all of the medications that you are taking (even over the counter drugs, vitamins and supplements) and always keep a list of your current medications. Some medications have side effects (like dizziness) that can lead to a fall. 

8. Don't Lift Heavy Objects

Don’t lift or carry anything that’s too heavy. When unloading your car, stay safe and take many trips to unload your items. If you overload yourself, it becomes hard to see where you are going and therefore, it’s easy to lose balance.

9. Exercise and Stretch to Improve Balance

Ask your doctor or therapist for safe exercises that build strength and improve balance. These exercises and stretches not only help improve your physical health, but they also help your mental health as well!

10. Take Care of Your Feet

Take care of your feet! Trim toenails and check feet every day for sores, bunions, calluses, warts and numbness. If your feet hurt, you will be less active, which could increase your risk for falls.
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With these tips for preventing indoor falls, you can live a safer, healthier, and more enjoyable life!  For more information about preventing falls, please check out these additional tips and a fall risk assessment or call 612-721-2491 for more information.

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Martin Luther Campus is part of the Ebenezer family of Lutheran Senior Care Communities. We provide transitional care and assisted living apartments for seniors in Bloomington. We also have adult day clubs and memory care programs for seniors living at home. We’re located at 1401 East 100th St. Bloomington, MN. Are you interested in transitioning to assisted living or do you have a loved one that needs assisted living? Call us at  952.888.7751