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Each year, thousands of
older Americans fall at home. According to the CDC, an older adult
is treated in an emergency room for a fall every 18 seconds, and
every 35 minutes an older adult dies as a result of a fall-related
injury. In Florida, falls are the leading cause of injury, death and
hospitalization for residents 35 and over. The good news is that
falls are preventable. It is time we bring the issue of falls to
light and address it as a community.
Injuries Can Be Prevented
Protect your independence
and reduce you risk of falling by:
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Exercising regularly;
exercise programs like Thai Chi that increase strength and
improve balance are especially good.
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Ask you doctor or
pharmacist to review your medicines, both prescription and
over-the-counter, to reduce side effects and interactions.
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Have your eyes
checked by an eye doctor at least at least once a year.
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Improve the lighting
in your home.
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Reduce hazards in
your home that can lead to falls.
Make
Your Home Safer
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Remove things you can
trip over (like papers, books, clothes, and shoes) from stairs
and places where you walk.
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Remove small throw
rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.
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Keep items you use
often in cabinets you can reach easily without using a step
stool.
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Have grab bars put in
next to your toilet and in the tub or shower.
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Install night lights
that turn-on when the room is dark for more visibility at night.
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Use non-slip mats in
the bathtub and on shower floors.
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Have handrails and
lights put in on all staircases.
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Wear shoes both
inside and outside the house. Avoid going barefoot or wearing
slippers.
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