Falls Prevention Awareness Week Brochure

“I used to worry so muchabout falling. But now I knowI can take actions to stop fallsand stay on my feet.”Follow these stepsto stop falls:Falls are not a normal part of aging.1.Move your bodyExercise is one of the best things youcan do to prevent falls. Exercise canmake your legs stronger and helpyour balance.• Some kinds of exercise (likeTai Chi) are especially good forimproving strength and balance.• Talk to your health care providerabout the best exercise programfor you. Your local Area Agencyon Aging can help you find classesthat are fun and helpful.2.3.Ask a doctor or pharmacistto check your medicationsSome medicines may make you feeldizzy or sleepy. This can cause you tofall.• Take your medicines to a doctoror pharmacist for review.• Ask if your medicines put you atrisk of falling.Get your vision checkedGet your vision checked yearly tohelp keep you safe. Your visionmay change as you get older. If youcannot see well, or if you wear thewrong glasses or contacts, you are atrisk of falling.4.Make your home saferAlmost half of falls occur at home.These steps can make your homesafer:• Keep floors free of small objectsthat may cause you to trip.• Remove throw rugs or usedouble-sided tape to keep themfrom sliding.• Store items you use often withineasy reach.• Install grab bars near your toiletand tub.• Increase the lighting in yourhome. As you get older, you needmore light to see.• Use curtains to reduce glare.Stay Strong Stay Active Stay Standing