North Texas Medical Center: Monthly Health Information.

Monthly Health Information

Month of September
September 23 – the first day of Fall kicks off “Fall Prevention Awareness Week” in Texas. Here are some tips for fall prevention:

MEDICATIONS:

Sleeping tablets are associated with increased risk of falling. Get up slowly and turn on the light when you get up.

Taking 4 or more medications daily can increase risk of falling – take as prescribed. Discuss with your doctor.

HEALTH CONDITIONS:

Visual disturbances can increase risk of falling – have your eyes tested every 1 to 2 years.

Pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, arthritis, etc . can affect your balance. Balance exercises can be done at home to improve this. Discuss with your doctor.

Dizziness can increase risk of falling – always change position from lying to sitting to standing slowly. If you feel dizzy sit down until it passes. Discuss this with your doctor.

Canes, walkers and wheelchairs should be well maintained, especially brakes and rubber stoppers.

FEET & FOOTWEAR:

Wear comfortable, firm-fitting shoes with low broad heel and soles that grip.

Do not wear poorly fitting slippers or walk in socks.

See your doctor if feet are painful, swollen or have pins and needles sensation.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS:

Flooring – should be dry and non-slip. Remove loose rugs or carpet.

Lighting - ensure adequate light, reduce sun glare with shades or drapes. Turn on light when getting up at night. Balance is reduced in the dark.

Stairs – need to be well lit and always use hand rail. Marking the edge of steps with a contrasting color can help reduce falls.

Chairs – avoid chairs with wheels. Feet should reach the floor when sitting.

Bathroom – keep floor dry. Use rubber mat in shower/bath. Install hand bars or rails to aid in standing or sitting.

Bedroom – make sure you can get on and off the bed easily. Keep clothes and clutter off floor to prevent tripping. Electrical cords should be run by the wall to prevent tripping.

Kitchen – frequently used items should be within easy reach. Watch for water around sink area.

Pets – if you have indoor pets, always know where they are when you are walking to prevent tripping. Watch for wet areas - especially at their water dish.

Outdoors – be aware of uneven paving, sidewalks and curbs. Watch for wet areas from weather, dew, animals. Use or install hand rails by all steps.

(Courtesy National Aging Research Institute)