Fall Prevention

Elderly Person Falling

The Trophy Club Fire Department frequently responds to emergency calls for patients who have fallen and cannot get up without assistance. Many of these patients require medical care or transportation to a hospital after falling.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 3 million people over the age of 65 are treated in emergency rooms for fall related injuries. Over 600,000 of these falls causes a serious injury such as a broken bone, a head injury, or a hip fracture.

Key factors that increase a person’s risk of falling:

  • Weakness in the lower body
  • Vitamin D deficiency
  • Medications
  • Vision problems
  • Home hazards (uneven steps, loose rugs, poor lighting, etc.)
  • Foot problems


Changes you can make to reduce your risk of falling in the home:

 

Remove Clutter

  • Remove throw rugs or secure them with double-sided tape or a non-slip pad
  • Remove tripping hazards such as electrical cords, pet food dishes, or pieces of furniture that are located in your walking path
  • Keep loose objects, like shoes, magazines, towels, and clothes off the floor

Improve the lighting in your home

  • Add nightlights with a light sensor that turns on automatically when it is dark to hallways and bathrooms
  • Have any burned out light bulbs replaced by a friend or family member
  • Keep a couple of flashlights with fresh batteries located in easily accessible areas in case of a power outage
  • Put a lamp that is easy to reach on both sides of the bed

Make your bathroom more fall-resistant

  • Install a non-slip mat or self-stick non-skid strips on the floor of your tub or shower
  • Install grab bars next to your tub, shower, and toilet
  • Use extra caution when the bathroom floors are wet

 Make your kitchen safer

  • Place frequently used items in easy to reach places
  • Never use a chair as a step stool
  • If you must use a step stool, invest in one with a grab bar

Additional safety steps

  • Use any assisted walking devices such as canes or walkers as instructed
  • Consider ordering a personal medical alert system with an emergency button that can be worn and activated if you fall
  • Minimize outdoor activities during rainy or icy conditions when falls are more common

The CDC also has several resources available to assist with fall education and prevention:

MyMobility Plan

Medications that can increase fall risks