Ten Ways To Prevent Falls - Preventing Falls: Osteoporosis

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Ten ways to prevent falls

Falls can result from a host of factors, some health-related and some environmental, such as failing vision or hearing; impaired muscle strength, coordination, and reflexes; dizziness (sometimes caused by medications); bad lighting; wet floors; and obstacles in pathways. When falls do occur, wearing hip pads can cushion the impact and lessen your chances of breaking a bone. Here are some other ways to protect yourself against dangerous falls:

• Clear your floors of clutter and any items that could trip you up, including loose wires, cords, and throw rugs.

• Make sure that stairways, entrances, and walkways are well lit, and install nightlights in your bedroom and bathroom.

• Clean up spills immediately.

• Wear rubber-soled shoes for better traction. Avoid walking around in socks.

• Limit your intake of alcohol.

• Keep items that you use often in easy-to-reach cabinets. Also, consider using reaching and grasping tools to get at difficult-to-reach items.

• Add grab bars to your tub, and use nonskid mats on bathroom floors.

• Talk to your doctor about whether any medications you are taking can cause dizziness or impair balance.

• Perform exercises such as tai chi, that can improve your balance, coordination, and muscle strength.

• Have your eyes checked regularly.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007