As you get older, preventing falls around your home becomes a much bigger priority. When you fall as a kid or even as a young adult, chances are that you can just pop back up without much care. The older you get, the harder you can fall and that can lead to serious injury or the inability to get back up on your own.

Did you know that falling is one of the leading causes of injury among older adults? A simple trip or loss of balance can lead to broken bones or serious bruises. They can even be deadly if you hit your head as you are falling.

Our AFC Urgent Care Louisville team wants you to stay safe no matter where you are, so read on to learn some helpful ways to avoid falls in your house.

How Can I Avoid Falls Altogether?

While it might not be possible to never fall or trip in your life, a sturdy sense of balance and strong muscles can help you avoid serious injury. This is one of the reasons we encourage exercise for our older population! Simple exercises like walking, tai chi and water aerobics classes can help you get stronger and more resilient towards quick movements.

Another easy way to reduce your risk of falling is to invest in sensible shoes. We tend to move a bit slower as we get older, so having a pair of shoes that you can trust to support you is crucial. Leave the sandals and slide-on shoes aside and stick to a strong pair of tennis shoes or other sturdy shoes to help guide you through your day.

Fall Prevention Outside of Your Home

• Have any broken or twisted exterior steps fixed right away.
• Keep your lawn tidy and roll up your hoses after every use.
• Turn your porch light on before leaving in the evening.
• Don’t travel when it is icy, or walk slowly and cautiously if you must.

What Can I Do to My House to Prevent Falls?

One of the biggest reasons that people fall in their homes is because they tripped over something. Reducing the amount of clutter around your house is key. Don’t leave shoes, books, boxes or anything on the floor that could easily be slipped on. Secure rugs to the ground, and clean up any spills right away.

In addition, you should keep your home full of light. A dark space can hide something that is in your way or you might not see the edge of the counter as you make your way through the kitchen. Always keep a lamp on your bedside table so you can turn it on if you have to use the restroom in the middle of the night.

Additional Fall Prevention Tips

• Use handrails when walking down steps.
  
• Install non-slip treads for your bathroom tub or shower.
• Invest in a raised toilet seat or grab bars.
• Move slowly and always be aware of your surroundings.

If a fall has left you injured, we are here for you. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Louisville.