The Falls Prevention Safety Checklist

As the leaves change color and the days get dimmer, the risk of slip and fall incidents increases significantly. Falls are a major public health concern, especially for seniors, who are more susceptible to injuries from such accidents.

Falls are also quite common, unfortunately: there are approximately 37 million older adult falls and 3 million subsequent ER department visits annually. The good news? Falls are preventable. And for this post, the team at My Chicago Foot Expert wants to help with that. Read on for common hazards to avoid, prevention strategies, and advice for what to do (and not do) when injured.

Common Fall Hazards

It’s important to note that, contrary to popular belief, falls are NOT a typical part of the aging process. In fact, they tend to stem from sources that are well-understood. Be sure to watch for:

• Slippery surfaces like ice, snow, wet leaves, or uneven sidewalks can contribute to falls.
• Poor lighting can make it difficult to see potential hazards.
• Loose rugs and cords can be tripping hazards, especially for those with limited mobility.
• Some medications can cause dizziness or balance problems, increasing the risk of falls.

Prevention Tips

To keep falls from occurring in the first place, try to:

• Wear appropriate footwear. Choose shoes with good traction and supportive soles, and do your best to avoid high heels.
• Improve your balance. Practice exercises like tai chi or yoga to enhance your balance and coordination. Ankle exercises are highly recommended, too.
• Declutter your home. Remove unnecessary clutter or tripping hazards from your living space.
• Install safety features. Consider installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on stairs.
• Consider customized braces or orthotics. A podiatrist can help you select the product best suited to your individual needs.

If you or someone you know has experienced a fall, it’s important to seek medical attention. Even minor falls can lead to serious injuries, especially in older adults. The CDC also provides plenty of free resources to help you with this, which you can access here.

Questions? Concerns? Call the friendly staff at My Chicago Foot Expert  (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.