Preventing Dangerous Falls

Did you know that, every year, a quarter of adults over the age of 65 will fall?

Falls can lead to injury, hospitalization, and death. In fact, 36 million people in the U.S. are hospitalized from falls each year, and 1 in every 5 falls results in an injury.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent falls and maintain your mobility:

1. Calculate your risk for falling. Women are more prone to falling than men, and a previous fall doubles your risk of doing so again. Take the National Council on Aging’s Free Falls Checkup to assess your risk and create a prevention plan.
2. Understand the facts about falling. Some people feel that falling is a normal part of aging–but that is far from the truth.  Others believe that muscle and strength deteriorate for good with older age, making falls inevitable. Read these 10 myths about falling to learn more and protect yourself.
3. Fall-proof your home. Falls often happen at home. Read these detailed instructions and diagrams with examples of how to make your home safer and prevent falls.
4. Learn what to do if you have a fall. If a fall does happen, don’t panic. Read these tips on how to assess yourself for injuries after a fall and how to help yourself get up safely.
5. Try exercise or physical therapy. Regular exercise boosts your strength, which is critical to preventing falls. Physical therapy can help with injuries, weakness, and imbalances in the body. Try an Around Town DC class in yoga, Zumba, or tai chi!