Fall prevention

April 9, 2008

Exercise and improve balance. Tai Chi is a proven way to do this.

Reduce hazards at home: Remove clutter from floors; install grab bars in bathrooms and nonslip mats in baths; improve lighting and install handrails on stairs.

Check for vision problems.

Limit use of medicines that affect the mind, such as sleeping pills and antianxiety drugs.

Seek medical advice; falls that don't cause injury often foreshadow harmful falls.

Resources

State Department of Public Health fall prevention hot line: 800-227-7233. Federal Centers for Disease Control: cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/preventadultfalls.htm

ALICE DEMBNER

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