Fall Prevention
Why is Fall Prevention Important?
Falls are a threat to the health of older adults and can reduce their ability to remain independent. However, falls aren’t something that just happens when you age, there are proven ways to reduce falls. Each year, millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
What Conditions Make You More Likely to Fall?
Research has identified many conditions that contribute to falling. These are called risk factors. Many risk factors can be changed or modified to help prevent falls.
They include:
- Lower body weakness
- Vitamin D deficiency (not enough vitamin D in your body)
- Difficulties with walking and balance
- Use of medicines, such as tranquilizers, sedatives, or antidepressants. Even some over-the-counter medicines can affect balance and how steady you are on your feet.
- Vision problems
- Foot pain or poor footwear
- Home hazards or dangers such as broken or uneven steps, throw rugs, or clutter that can be tripped over.
Most falls are caused by a combination of risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances of falling.
How Can AtlantiCare Help?
Falls are preventable and there are simple steps you can take to stay independent longer. AtlantiCare Health Engagement offers free fall prevention seminars to educate older adults who have concerns about falling.
STAND TALL, PREVENT FALLS
This FREE one hour seminar includes an introduction to fall prevention and home safety tips designed to raise awareness, educate and provide useful strategies to prevent falls.
A MATTER OF BALANCE PROGRAM (MOB)
A Matter of Balance is a free, eight-week fall prevention program geared for individuals who are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength.
PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN TO:
- view falls as controllable
- set goals for increasing activity
- make changes to reduce fall risks at home
- exercise to increase strength and balance
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
- anyone concerned about falls
- anyone interested in improving
- balance, flexibility and strength
- anyone who has fallen in the past
- anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns
For more information or to set up a class, call Health Engagement at 1-609-677-7507 or email wellness@atlanticare.org
GET THE SUPPORT YOU NEED. HELP IS AVAILABLE
https://go4life.nia.nih.gov/exercises
AtlantiCare Health Engagement Fall prevention resources