By Vi Lam
April 2023 | 2023 Spring Newsletter
Spring is here and cleaning is in session! When tidying your space, it is important to identify areas of risk for slips, trips, and falls and take action to prevent accidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate three million people age 65 and older are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries each year.
Falls can happen to anyone, regardless of age. Anyone can take steps to reduce fall risk.
First, make sure rooms are well lit. Declutter rooms by tossing or donating items you do not need. Ensure all cords are out of walking paths by moving
them against walls, removing unused cords, or bundling cords together. Mats and rugs can be secured to floors with double-sided rug tape to avoid folded corners that can cause tripping.
Consider installing grab bars and tall toilets in bathrooms, and non-slip stair nosing or strips to aid in preventing slips and falls. Beds should be easy to get in and out of. Doorknobs should also be checked to see if they are easy to grip and use.
Focusing on your health with yearly vision check-ups, working on strength and balance, incorporating daily movement like tai chi, and being aware of medication’s side effects, can also help with fall prevention.
For more tips and to learn about the free home-based Farewell to Falls program for adults 65 years and older, visit stanfordhealthcare.org/events/farewell-to-falls.html.
Spring is here and cleaning is in session! When tidying your space, it is important to identify areas of risk for slips, trips, and falls and take action to prevent accidents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate three million people age 65 and older are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries each year.
Falls can happen to anyone, regardless of age. Anyone can take steps to reduce fall risk.
First, make sure rooms are well lit. Declutter rooms by tossing or donating items you do not need. Ensure all cords are out of walking paths by moving them against walls, removing unused cords, or bundling cords together. Mats and rugs can be secured to floors with double-sided rug tape to avoid folded corners that can cause tripping.
Consider installing grab bars and tall toilets in bathrooms, and non-slip stair nosing or strips to aid in preventing slips and falls. Beds should be easy to get in and out of. Doorknobs should also be checked to see if they are easy to grip and use.
Focusing on your health with yearly vision check-ups, working on strength and balance, incorporating daily movement like tai chi, and being aware of medication’s side effects, can also help with fall prevention.
For more tips and to learn about the free home-based Farewell to Falls program for adults 65 years and older, visit stanfordhealthcare.org/events/farewell-to-falls.html.