Falling While Aging Does Not Have To Be Normal

It is Falls Prevention Week and there are multiple steps anyone can take to keep getting around safely.

Sara Martin is the Family Caregiver and Evidence Based Assistant for the Area Agency on Aging and Disability. Martin said that falling is not actually a normal part of aging.

“Some signs of being more aware of our fall prevention is unsteady walking, trouble with vision problems,” Martin said. “And even some medication can cause side effects of dizziness or unsteadiness.”

Martin said exercise, adding home safety devices and increased doctor visits can all help before problems start. Martin said if balance continues to be an issue, it is time to check in with a doctor.

“One of the most important things is always to talk with their medical doctor,” Martin said. “They can always ask them to conduct a balance assessment and that would allow them to look and check if there is any unsteadiness there or maybe some of the medications that they can switch around if it is causing unsteadiness.”

She said if you’re trying to help a loved one who is falling, encourage them to seek assistance and get them involved in picking their own walker or cane. Martin said this is critical if someone is living alone.

“Make sure there home has safety for fall prevention,” Martin said. “There’s several different devices out there for individuals that live alone, such as the life alert button. Those they can get at their local hospital and then also making sure to try and install some hand bars and grab bars in the bathroom.”

Martin said that even minor changes to a home can make a difference. She said that can include avoiding rugs and cords that can make someone trip.