TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- One-third of Americans over the age of 65 fall every year, but experts say there are things you can do at home to help prevent injuries.
Physical therapist Teresa Hunter from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare joined us on WTXL Sunrise for some of the best ways you can help stop falls before they happen.
Here's her advice:
1) Talk to your doctor. Ask for an assessment of your risk of falling and how you can reduce your risk for osteoporosis.
2) Exercise regularly. Your exercises should include leg strengthening, balance and flexibility exercises.
3) Review medicines regularly (prescription and over the counter) with your doctor or pharmacist. Ask if any have side effects that may increase your risk of falls. Take medications only as prescribed.
4) Have your vision and hearing checked annually. Be sure to update your eyeglasses.
5) Walk through your home and check for fall hazards. Remove tripping hazards, increase lighting and install grab bars.
6) Change positions slowly. Stand for just a minute before you walk to be sure that you have your balance and aren’t feeling dizzy.
7) Talk to your family about falls. Ask for help. Family members may be able to help you with your home assessment. Ask a family member to go with you to your exercise program… it’s more fun with company!
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For more information about an upcoming seminar from TMH, click here.
