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WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 39853 [post_author] => 9192204 [post_date] => 2025-04-02 17:45:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-04-02 21:45:32 [post_content] => [post_title] => Fall Prevention for Older Adults: Tips to Stay Safe and Independent [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => fall-prevention-tips-for-seniors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-04-14 17:51:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-04-14 21:51:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://monadnockcommunityhospital.com/nutrition-tips-for-seniors-healthy-aging-copy/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

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At Monadnock Community Hospital, we believe that wellness isn't just a destination—it's a journey we embark on together. That's why we've launched our Wellness Wednesday campaign, an initiative designed to inspire, inform, and empower our community to lead healthier, happier lives. ) [_page_sections_1_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] => field_5a79c5dfc5cca ) [page_sections_1_width] => Array ( [0] => normal ) [_page_sections_1_width] => Array ( [0] => field_5af99fbbc9de1 ) [page_sections_2_section_title] => Array ( [0] => ) [_page_sections_2_section_title] => Array ( [0] => field_5ada5134d3021 ) [page_sections_2_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] => Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, but the good news is that many falls can be prevented with proactive measures. Maintaining your independence and safety starts with small adjustments to your environment and daily habits. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of falls:

Keep Your Home Safe

Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, clutter, and cords. Install grab bars in bathrooms and secure handrails on staircases. Good lighting is also crucial, so replace dim bulbs and add nightlights. Science: Environmental modifications can reduce falls by up to 30% (Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 2020).

Stay Physically Active

Regular exercise improves balance, strength, and flexibility, all of which are key to fall prevention. Activities like yoga, tai chi, and walking are excellent choices. Science: Tai chi reduces fall risk by enhancing balance and coordination (British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2019).

Wear Proper Footwear

Choose well-fitting, non-slip shoes with good support. Avoid slippers, high heels, or shoes with slick soles. Science: Poor footwear increases fall risk, particularly among older adults with mobility issues (PLOS One, 2017).

Have Regular Vision and Hearing Checks

Vision and hearing impairments can affect your ability to detect hazards. Ensure you have up-to-date prescriptions and consider hearing aids if needed. Science: Correcting vision impairment reduces fall rates significantly (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2018).

Review Your Medications

Certain medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Talk to your healthcare provider to ensure your prescriptions are not increasing your risk of falls. Science: Medication reviews and adjustments reduce fall risks (Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 2021).

Use Assistive Devices When Needed

If you struggle with mobility, tools like canes or walkers can provide stability. Work with a physical therapist to find the right device for your needs. Science: Assistive devices improve safety and reduce fall-related injuries (Journal of Rehabilitation Research, 2020). ) [_page_sections_2_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] => field_5a79c5dfc5cca ) [page_sections_2_width] => Array ( [0] => normal ) [_page_sections_2_width] => Array ( [0] => field_5af99fbbc9de1 ) [_yoast_wpseo_focuskw] => Array ( [0] => Fall prevention for older adults ) [_yoast_wpseo_title] => Array ( [0] => Wellness Wednesday: Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle ) [_yoast_wpseo_metadesc] => Array ( [0] => Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, but many can be prevented. Learn how home safety, exercise, and routine health checks can help reduce fall risks and maintain independence. ) [_wp_old_date] => Array ( [0] => 2024-07-31 [1] => 2024-08-07 ) [_thumbnail_id] => Array ( [0] => 39854 ) [page_sections_3_section_title] => Array ( [0] => FAQ ) [_page_sections_3_section_title] => Array ( [0] => field_5ada5134d3021 ) [page_sections_3_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] =>

Why is fall prevention so important?

Falls are a leading cause of injuries like fractures and head trauma in older adults. Preventing falls protects your independence and quality of life.

How can exercise reduce fall risk?

Exercise improves muscle strength, flexibility, and balance, which are essential for stability and coordination.

Are grab bars only for bathrooms?

No, grab bars can be installed anywhere extra support is needed, such as near stairs or along hallways.

Can physical therapy help with fall prevention?

Yes, physical therapists can create personalized exercise programs to improve your strength and balance, reducing your risk of falls. ) [_page_sections_3_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] => field_5a79c5dfc5cca ) [page_sections_3_width] => Array ( [0] => normal ) [_page_sections_3_width] => Array ( [0] => field_5af99fbbc9de1 ) [page_sections_4_section_title] => Array ( [0] => Resources ) [_page_sections_4_section_title] => Array ( [0] => field_5ada5134d3021 ) [page_sections_4_wysiwyg] => Array ( [0] =>

CDC: Fall Prevention Checklist
CDC: About Older Adult Fall Prevention
National Institute on Aging: Prevent Falls and Fractures
Mayo Clinic: Fall Prevention Tips
National Council on Aging: Falls Prevention