Member-only story
Surprising Ways to Prevent Falls
Even in old age, you don’t have to fall—ever
At multiple times in my life, I’ve been the queen of falling. Other than a few bruises and skinned knees, I’ve never been badly hurt.
But now that I’m in my 70s, I’m aware that I better not fall again–EVER!
As we get older, a lot of things change and put us at a greater risk of falling. Simply being in our age bracket makes falling more likely.
Here are a few things that contribute to falls:
- Eyesight changes, cataract surgery
- Medications, medical conditions
- Wearing a mask or face covering
- Drinking alcohol
- Decreased balance or strength
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that each year, one in four individuals ages 65 and older will have a fall resulting in broken bones or head injuries.
You certainly know about getting rid of throw rugs and installing grab bars. But here are some surprising ways to prevent falls and improve your life.
Count the steps EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.
It’s always the last step! Missing that one can take you to the floor in an instant, often bringing disaster with it. Before you tumble down a set of stairs again, put these tools in place.
On stairs, always count the steps, going up as well as down. Until this becomes a habit, count them out loud.
In your home, memorize them. From my laundry room into my garage, there are four steps and I always count them, even when my arms are full of groceries.
Counting stairs forces you to focus on your feet, not the people or scenes ahead of you. When you leave someone’s home, especially at night, stop at the doorway and say goodbye before walking away from the door.
Then watch and count the steps instead of waving to your friends. This helps you focus on the path, stairs, or other hazards that might cause you to trip.
