Lincoln Way Chapter - American Red Cross

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Preventing Falls Among the Elderly

  • Maintain a regular exercise program. Exercise improves strength, balance, and coordination. Talk with your health care provider about the best type of exercise for you.
     
  • Make your home fall-proof. Remove tripping hazards such as papers, books, and shoes from floors and stairs. Remove throw rugs that may slip or secure them with double-sided tape. Use non-slip mats in bathtubs and showers. Have grab bars and/or a bath chair installed in bathrooms. Make sure that your home is well lit and that staircases have handrails.
     
  • Have your health care provider review your medicines to reduce side effects and avoid drug interactions.
     
  • Have your vision checked by an eye doctor. Poor vision can increase the risk of falling.
     

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© 2003 American Red Cross
Lincoln Way Chapter, 426 Fifth St., Ames Iowa 50010
(515) 232-5104  ; (877) 316-5221 ;  http://www.lincolnwayarc.org/