Fall Prevention: Mayo Clinic Recommendations

The Mayo Clinic website offers a wealth of medical information on some of the most important healthcare issues among seniors.  One such article lists six, easily implemented fall prevention strategies for seniors and those who care for and about them.  In addition to listing the strategies, specific ways to implement them and to minimize risk of falling both at home and in the community are also listed.

The six strategies and some of the specific recommendations are listed below:

• Make an appointment with your doctor.

Discuss medications, health conditions that may increase fall risk, and details of previous falls with your physician.

• Keep moving. 

Consider walking or water exercises and consult a physical therapist for specific exercise needs such as balance, flexibility, and coordination.

• Wear sensible shoes.

Avoid high heels, slippers, or shoes with slick soles.  Choose well-fitted shoes that lace-up and have nonskid soles.

•  Remove home hazards.

Many useful suggestions and ideas are listed.  In particular, clear traffic areas and repair flooring issues as soon as you notice them.

• Light up your living space.

Keep your home brightly lit to minimize tripping.

• Use assistive devices.

You may benefit from using a walker or cane but also consider installing hand rails on both sides of the stairs and grab bars in the bathrooms to help improve safety.

This article presents information on fall prevention that is easily understood and can be used immediately.  The recommendations, some of which are presented above, are excellent.  Contact Dignity Care Consulting if you have any additional questions or need help implementing these ideas.  We specialize in keeping people moving and living well at their maximum level of independence.