4 Fall Prevention Tips For Older People

As we get older, the chances of us sustaining some kind of slip, trip or fall increases – but the good news is that this isn’t an inevitable part of the ageing process and there’s a lot that can be done to prevent falls from taking place.

If you’re concerned about an accident of this kind and how it would impact your life, here are some top tips from the Practical Bathing team to help you stay safe.

1. Review your medication

If any medication you’re taking is making you drowsy or dizzy, speak to your doctor to carry out a review and see if there are any alternatives that won’t have these side-effects.

2. Consider osteoporosis screening

Osteoporosis is a common condition where your bones become brittle and fragile with age. Post-menopausal women are particularly affected because of a drop in oestrogen. 

Regular screening can help, as can performing weight-bearing exercises, eating calcium-rich food, reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking.

3. Make your home safer

The majority of us want to stay living at home for as long as possible over the years and it can be highly beneficial for our mental and emotional health to remain in a comfortable and familiar environment as we get older..

To achieve this, you will want to make your home as safe as you can, with steps including:

• Getting rid of trip hazards such as loose cables and wiring, or curled-up carpets and rugs
• Installing grab bars in the bathroom
• Installing easy-access baths and showers
• Installing bannisters on both sides of the stairs
• Improving the lighting system so you can see as you walk

4. Use supportive aids

If you need to, use walkers or canes to help you get about. Wearing a personal alarm could also be beneficial so you can call for help if you do suffer a fall.