FALLS: There are ways to lower the risk

Let our experts assess your environment and see how we can make it safer. We offer assistive and safety devices that reduce the risk of falling.

Common-sense ways to prevent falls.

• Use a cane or walker to steady yourself when getting up. Stand up slowly after eating, lying down, or resting. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop, which can make you feel faint.
• Use a cane or walker to feel steadier when you walk. If your doctor prescribes a or walker, we can help find one that fits your needs.
• Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes that fully support your feet. Wearing only socks or smooth-soled shoes on stairs or waxed floors can be unsafe.
• Hold the handrails when you use the stairs. Use hand grips and install grab bars throughout the house.
• Don't stand on a chair to reach items on tall shelves. We can help you choose the right reaching stick, commonly known as a reacher, that can make many daily tasks safer and easier. Consider a step stool with a handle.
• Carefully consider the safety of your bathroom. Grab bars, raised toilet seats, safety bars for your tub, and transfer benches can make your bathroom a significantly safer place.
• Consider purchasing a personal medical alarm to wear around your neck.
• Taking care of your overall health and well-being can help lower your risk.
• Ask your doctor about a bone density test, which will tell how strong your bones are. Medications are available that can make your bones stronger and harder to break.
• Regular exercise can help keep you strong, and your joints, tendons, and ligaments flexible. Talk with your doctor before beginning any program.
• Have your vision and hearing tested often. Even small changes in sight and hearing can make you less stable. 
• Discuss possible side effects from medication with your doctor and/or pharmacist. Some Medicines affect coordination and balance.