Senior Fall Safety
November 1, 2005

Falls can occur at any age, but the rates of injury and death resulting from falls are greatest among seniors. This can happen because of changes in muscle and bone strength, vision, hearing and coordination that take place with aging. Seniors are also more likely to have other health conditions and use more medications. These factors can affect balance and coordination. Falls can limit the ability to lead an active, independent life. But there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of falls.

The following are guidelines you can use to make your home safer:

All Areas

• Contrast in paint, furniture and carpet colors is helpful.
• Ensure that stairways have sturdy handrails.
• Keep halls, stairways, and pathways well lighted and free of clutter and obstacles.
• Keep walk areas clear.
• Apply slip strips on the edges of steps to reduce slick stair surfaces.
• Remove throw rugs or tack down securely with double-sided adhesive tape. Tape down carpet edges.
• Place electrical cords and telephone wires away from walking paths.
• Post-emergency numbers at every telephone. Carry a portable phone.

Bathroom

• Apply non-skid appliques on tub and shower floors.
• Install grab bars in tub and around toilet. Consider a shower chair.
• Avoid throw rugs or tack rugs down securely with double sided tape.
• Keep bathroom well lighted.

Kitchen

• Keep commonly used items within easy reach.
• Avoid using floor polish or wax to reduce slick surfaces on floors.

Bedroom

• Keep a telephone and light within easy reach of the bed.
• Rise slowly from bed to sitting position. Dangle legs for a few minutes prior to standing and walking.

Outdoor Home Safety Measures

• Keep walk areas clear of clutter, rocks and tools. Keep well lighted at night.
• Keep walkways clear of snow and ice.
• Make sure walkways are level, free of cracks, loose gravel, holes, and constructed with slip resistant materials.
• Conduct regular maintenance checks of the home to look for loose railings or any other necessary repairs.

Other Steps You Can Take To Reduce Your Risk Of A Fall

• Have regular vision and hearing check-ups.
• Clean eye glasses often to improve visibility.
• Wear proper fitting, supportive shoes with low heels or rubber soles.
• A proper diet and moderate exercise are essential. Females need an adequate intake of calcium.
• Use walking aids when necessary.
• See your doctor for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of underlying diseases.
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of the medications you are taking.

To set up a media interview with a REMSA representative, please call Scott Walquist at 775.686.2116.

REMSA is a private, not-for-profit emergency medical services system serving northern Nevada. REMSA’s state-of-the-art 9-1-1 dispatch communications center is fully accredited, as are all emergency medical transport services of the company. REMSA provides quality patient care with no taxpayer support or other subsidies.

450 Edison Way Reno, Nevada 89502 (775)858-5700 Fax (775)858-5720