Everyday Tips to Reduce Falls and Injury

According to reports from the CDC, 37 million older adults experience falls each year, leading to 3 million emergency room visits annually. The National Council on Aging provides Falls Free CheckUp, a free online tool that helps to assess your risk and offer valuable resources for fall prevention.

Searching for ways for older adults to prevent falls and injuries? Aldersly is here to help. Here are five simple ways to prevent falls and injury in your everyday life:

1) Design Your Home With Safety In Mind

Since we spend much of our lives at home, it’s crucial to create a safe living space that minimizes tripping risks and provides balance support. Here are some key design safety tips to keep in mind:

• Keep hallways and walkways free of clutter, cords, and other obstacles
• Use non-slip pads or tape to secure rugs to the floor
• Ensure proper lighting, specifically in accident-prone areas like bathrooms or stairwells
• Have handrails installed on staircases and grab bars in bathrooms, particularly near the toilet and shower to help you move safely through your living space.

2) Stay Mindful of Your Surroundings

It's always important to be aware of potential tripping hazards as you go about your day. As you keep an eye out for these risks, they become easier to spot them, such as:

• Uneven sidewalks or pavement
• Slippery leaves, sticks, or puddles when outdoors
• Furniture legs that stick out, cords, and unsecured rugs
• Items left on the floor, like bags, shoes, or other clutter

3) Strengthen Your Balance Through Exercise

One simple way to improve balance is with easy exercises like this one:

1. Stand behind or beside a stable chair (without wheels), near enough that you can hold onto it for support if needed.
2. Shift your weight to one leg and lift the other foot off the ground.
3. Hold this position for a few seconds, then switch legs and repeat.

For extra support while walking, consider using a cane or walking stick to enhance stability. There are many designs available, so they can double as a practical tool and a fashionable accessory to complement your outfit!

4) Learn to Fall “Correctly” to Prevent and Minimize Injury

Even after taking safety precautions, falls can still happen. Did you know that there are ways to control your fall to reduce impact and avoid serious injury? Here’s how:

• Aim for a soft landing: Try to land on your bottom or another fleshy area of your body to soften impact. 
• Protect your head: If you’re falling forward, turn your head to the side to avoid facial injuries. When falling backwards, tuck your chin to prevent hitting the back of your head.
• Bend your elbows: If you catch yourself with your hands, bend your elbows to absorb the shock and protect your wrists and joints.
• Go with the momentum: If possible, try to roll with the direction of the fall. This will reduce the strain on your joints and bones.

5) Reduce Falls and Make Everyday Safer by Living in a Senior Living Community

The environment of a senior living community can significantly reduce the risk of falls while encouraging independence and elevating your lifestyle. 

At Aldersly, we take fall prevention seriously, which is why we use technology from SafelyYou. This innovative program uses AI video technology to detect and record falls, so that Aldersly staff are immediately alerted of falls, can review video to assess severity, and get residents appropriate care right away.

With thoughtfully designed communal spaces and residential floor plans, our community combines elegant functionality with warmth and comfort. Our residences are designed to fit your lifestyle while providing connection to Aldersly’s welcoming and vibrant community. We offer convenient access to on-site amenities and services, such as fitness classes, delicious dining, and fun social activities and entertainment, so that a carefree retirement is always within reach.

Experience Comfort and Connection at Aldersly

At Aldersly in San Rafael, CA, embrace the Scandinavian-inspired spirit of hygge with our community designed for your comfort, coziness, and well-being. Enjoy an active, independent lifestyle in a welcoming community with a continuum of care and amenities designed for connection and enjoyment. Contact us today and make Aldersly your new home!