SENIORS FIRST PLACER COUNTY RESOURCE GUIDE
Fall Prevention Injuries from falls are the leading reason seniors lose their independence. However, falls are preventable through exercise, medication management, eye exams, and home modifications. • Stay physically active. Regular exercise makes you stronger. Weight- bearing activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, may slow bone loss from osteoporosis. • Have your eyes and hearing tested regularly. Always wear your glasses. If you have a hearing aid, be sure it fits well, and wear it. • Find out about the side effects of any medicine you take. Have your physician and pharmacist do a medication review for you to ensure you are taking appropriate medications. If a drug makes you sleepy or dizzy, tell your doctor and pharmacist. • Get enough sleep. The average person needs between 7 -9 hours of sleep per night. If you are sleepy, you are more likely to fall. • Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Even a small amount can affect balance and reflexes. • Stand up slowly after eating, lying down, or sitting. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop, which can make you feel faint. • Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes that fully support your feet. Wearing only socks or shoes/slippers with smooth soles on stairs or floors without carpet can be unsafe. • Have your home evaluated for fall risk: Install grab bars in the tub and shower, remove throw rugs. You can find more about fall prevention at nia.nih.gov
Questions? Call Seniors First 530-889-9500
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