Falling down is a common, usually harmless event in a child’s life. A fall, however, can be a serious and even fatal event for an adult, particularly someone over the age of 65. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), unintentional falls were the number one cause of nonfatal injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms in 2010. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports one in three community-dwelling persons over the age of 65 falls each year, and this number increases to one in two by the age of 80.

Most falls are preventable if you make simple changes to your home and follow basic safety guidelines. The American Occupational Therapy Association recommends the following steps to reduce your risk of falling:

• Remove all clutter from your living areas, including throw rugs, electrical cords, boxes, etc.
• Immediately clean up floor spills.
• Locate your pets before moving about in your home and yard.
• Never stand on stools or chairs to reach objects. Instead, use a sturdy step stool with hand rails or better yet, ASK FOR HELP!
• Do not use a sink or tub surface for support. They are often wet or can give way. Instead, have secure grab bars properly installed.
• Use a nonslip mat on the floor of your shower or tub.
• Improve your view: turn on overhead lights or use night lights in order to have a clear view of potential hazards.

Fear and anxiety can cause adults to avoid activities they love. Rather, stay active in order to maintain your strength and endurance. Many older adults enjoy walking, biking, and swimming for both exercise and socializing with friends. To stay safe while enjoying the outdoors: wear supportive footwear and bright-colored or reflective clothing, scan for obstacles in your environment as you move over uneven terrain, and consider using a walking stick to help with balance.

Did you know September 22, 2015, marks the 8th annual National Falls Prevention Awareness Day sponsored by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). The Indiana Falls Prevention Coalition is working with NCOA to increase awareness and prevent falls in Indiana. Watch for future announcements about events in your area. 

Dr. Mary Kay Arvin is a member of the planning committee for the annual Mid-America Institute on Aging, co-sponsored by the University of Southern Indiana and SWIRCA & More.