By Bailey Breeding, Community Relations Intern
A trip and fall can be a result of many different things. Medical conditions and medications may put someone at a higher fall risk. There are several risk factors that can lead to falling including:
Muscle weakness
Problems with balance and gait
Drops in blood pressure
Foot problems/injuries
Confusion
Medication side effects
One of the best ways to reduce the chances of a trip and fall accident for yourself or your loved one is to follow a prevention checklist. Go over this list with your grandparent, neighbor or anyone at risk of fall injuries:
Staying physically active: Have an exercise plan that works for you, this can make you stronger and help keep joints, ligaments and tendons flexible.
Having hearing and eyes checked: Even the smallest change in your sight or hearing can lead to a fall. Make sure you are wearing glasses or contacts if you need to and if you wear hearing aid make sure you are wearing them and they fit well.
Stand up slowly: Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop, which can lead to you feel unsteady.
Use assistive devices to feel steady when walking: Canes and walkers can be used to help prevent falls. It is important to ensure that the cane or walker is the right size for you and that the wheels roll smoothly.
Wear good shoes: Non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled or lace-up shoes with non-skid soles that fully support your feet are all good shoes to help prevent a fall. Don’t walk on floors or stairs in socks or shoes with smooth soles.
Remove home hazards: Make sure walk ways are clear, secure loose rugs, clean up any spills right away and use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.
Keep living spaces brightly lit: Place nightlights in your bedroom, hallways and bathroom. Have a lamp within reach from your bed, turn on your lights before going up or down stairs. Store flashlights in easy to find places in case of a power outage.
Always tell your doctor if you have fallen: A fall can alert your doctor a new medical problem or a problem with your eyesight or medication that can be fixed.
While some falls can be prevented by following the steps listed above, not all falls are preventable. If you fall, the following steps can help:
Stay calm, try to relax
Carrying a mobile/portable phone with you around your house can make it easier to call someone for help if you need assistance
An emergency response system, which lets you push a button on a special bracelet or necklace to call for help is another option.
We are always happy to discuss safety with you, call the Rincon Valley Fire District at (520) 647-3760 for more information.
Bailey grew up in Vail and graduated from Andrada Polytechnic High School. She is interning at RVFD, where she is working on safety education outreach, while obtaining a degree in fire science. Bailey loves coaching volleyball and hiking in Arizona.