September is Falls Prevention and Awareness Month! Learn how you and your loved ones can avoid falls and injury. Need help? Ask a PT professional!
Check your home for fall risks: Use this falls prevention checklist from the CDC to find ways to make your home safer as you age.
Stay physically active and focus on overall wellness: Do these simple falls prevention exercises at home or find a fitness class at your local area agency on aging. Staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and getting quality sleep can all improve your overall wellness and decrease your risk of falling.
Get an annual fall screening: The CDC recommends that all adults over the age of 65 get an annual fall screening. If you have additional symptoms, such as dizziness or light-headedness, you may need a fall screening earlier.
Get regular medical checks: Changes in vision, hearing, and foot stability may cause you to fall. Ask your medical provider how often you should have your vision and hearing checked. If you receive new eyewear or hearing aids, take time to get used to them. If you are noticing changes in your foot strength or the way you walk, talk to your medical provider about these changes.
Tell your medical provider if you have fallen: A fall can alert your medical provider to a possible problem and help them provide you with steps to prevent future accidents. These steps may include things like changing medication, seeing a physical therapist, or seeing an occupational therapist.
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