Tips to Avoid Falls

Nearly one third of all people over the age of 65 fall each year, and that figure increases to 50% by age 80. For seniors, falls in and around the home are the most frequently occurring accident. In fact, falls are the seventh leading cause of death in people over the age of 65.

A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that preventing falls and the resulting injuries can reduce or delay the need to move to a long-term care facility.

Home safety, health and age can contribute to falls. Causes include:

• The use of certain medications

• Slow reflexes

• Poor eyesight

• Problems with balance

• These hazardous conditions in the home can also contribute to falls:

• Slippery floors

• Inadequate lighting

• Electrical cords in pathways

• Loose rugs

• Raised thresholds

• Clutter

Most falls in the home occur in bathrooms, bedrooms and stairs.