Transcript National Council on Aging

Improving the lives of older Americans
Staying on Our Feet
Some strategies to reduce the risk of falling
October 10, 2009
National Council on Aging
NCOA’s Mission
To improve the lives of
older Americans.
Who We Are
NCOA is a non-profit service and
advocacy organization based in
Washington, DC.
What We Do
NCOA is a national voice for older adults –
especially those who are vulnerable and
disadvantaged -- and the community
organizations that serve them.
NCOA brings together non-profit organizations,
businesses and government to develop
creative solutions that improve the lives of
all older adults.
NCOA works with thousands of organizations
across the country to help seniors live
independently, find jobs and benefits,
improve their health, live independently and
remain active in their communities
Falling is not a normal consequence of aging.
Most falls are preventable!
If you take steps to reduce your individual risk
in those areas commonly known to affect your
chances of falling
First, talk to your doctor IF
• You have experienced a fall in the last six
months
• You experience light headedness or
dizziness
• You are afraid of falling
What puts us at risk for falling?
The major contributors
to your risk for falling
include:
•Medications
•Physical Inactivity
•Vision
•Home safety
http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety
/pubs/English/brochure_Eng_desktop-a.pdf
Why does Medication Put us at Risk?
• Higher volume of medications
• Mixing prescription medications, over
the counter, herbals and alcohol –
• Some medicines, or combinations of
medicines, can make you sleepy or
dizzy and can cause you to fall.
• How medicines work in your body
• Not following directions for use
Reducing Medication Related Risks
Strategies
Periodic medication review and with every new
prescription
Using one pharmacy
Adhering to prescribed uses and dosing
directions
Not mixing prescription medications, over the
counter, herbals and alcohol - carrying a list
of ALL medications you consume
Why does physical inactivity put us
at risk for falling?
Physical Inactivity leads
to declines in:
• Balance
• Strength
• Flexibility
You can make substantial
improvements at ANY AGE
Where to Find Physical Activity
Programs
If you believe falling is not a significant concern - YET!
Take steps to become more active:
Contact your Area Agency on Aging for information about
local physical activity programs and services
http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/Public/Home.aspx
or call: 800.677.1116
Good sources of age appropriate programs:
Area Agencies on Aging
Senior Centers
YMCA/YWCA
Recreation Centers
Keys to successful Physical Activity
Programs
Provides challenging and fun exercises that
over time will improve your balance, flexibility
and strength
Meets your interests and needs, and is easily
accessible
Bring a friend
Are you at higher risk?
• Feeling unsteady on your
feet, concerned about
other health conditions,
afraid of falling?
• Experiencing dizziness or
lightheadedness?
• Had a fall within the last
six months?
IF yes…
• See your health care
provider for assessment
and targeted physical
activity prescription
• See a physical therapist
who can guide you to
community programs
when your balance
improves
Vision
Losing vision is not a
normal part of aging,
therefore an annual
dilated eye exam is
recommended
It is normal to need more light as we
age to discern tripping hazards and
contrasting edges
Vision
If you already have reduced vision
enroll in a low vision program
Vision Simple Steps to Take
•Increase lighting in your home, especially
hallways and staircases
•Use nightlights and keep a flashlight by the
bedside
•Color contrast stair edges
•Remove tripping hazards
• When going from sunlight to darkened
rooms, allow eyes to adjust or change glasses
Home Safety
Up to 60% of falls occur
in or around your home
www.cdc.gov/ncipc/pubres/toolkit/Falls_ToolKit/DesktopPDF/English/booklet_Eng_desktop.pdf
Home Safety: Simple Steps to Take
•Remove items from walkways that can be
tripped over such as books, papers, shoes.
•Be sure the stairwell areas are clear of
clutter.
•Improve lighting in the home. Be sure
walkways and stairs are well lighted.
•All staircases should have handrails,
preferably two rails.
More Simple Steps to Take
•Keep items used often in areas easily
reached without having to use a step stool.
•Ask for help in changing ceiling light bulbs
and smoke alarm batteries
•Install grab bars next to the toilet and in
the tub or shower.
•Use non-slip mats in the bathtub or
shower.
What About Pets?
My little tripping hazard
http://stopfalls.org/resources/downloadables/Falls_Pets.pdf
What about canes and walkers?
IF properly fit and properly instructed in
the safe use of assistive devices they
can enhance safety
Do not borrow devices without proper
fitting and instruction – See your local
physical therapist for assistance
http://stopfalls.org/grantees_info/files/AssistiveDevices.pdf
Falling is not a normal consequence of aging.
Most falls are preventable!
If we take steps to reduce your individual risk in
those areas commonly known to affect our
chances of falling
If we partner with our families and health care
provider to help you reduce our risk of falling