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Avoiding Falls


Every hour one older adult dies and another 183 are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries. Of those who fall, 20 to 30 percent suffer moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death. Having four or more risk factors such as poor vision, unsteady balance, multiple medications or an unsafe home environment can increase your risk of falling by 78 percent.

Visiting Nurse Association of Southeast Michigan knows that helping seniors prevent falls is an important part of maintaining health and independence. VNA is pleased to offer FALLS FREE, a free in-home assessment that examines your risks for falls and offers suggestions to decrease your risk.

Schedule your appointment today and and take an important step to being FALLS FREE!

Eligibility: Residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties, age 65 and older.

Program: A registered nurse will come to your home and assess you for your risk for falls. The visit is scheduled at your convenience and lasts approximately an hour.

Cost: Free to those who meet eligibility criteria.

Results: Increased safety and peace of mind.

Appointment: Call (248) 967-8755 to schedule your appointment.

Falls prevention Tips
To reduce falls in your own home, consider doing the following:

    		•  The surface you are walking or standing on makes a big difference in preventing falls. Carpeted areas are generally easier to walk on than wood or tiled floors. Also make sure there are non-slip strips in your bathtub.
    		• Use the tools you have to your advantage each time you need to move somewhere. Always use your cane or walker no matter how far you need to go and if there are handrails on stair cases and in bathrooms, use them to steady yourself while walking or getting up.
    		• Clear the floor of all obstacles that may be tripped over. Don’t leave any clothes, magazines, bags or other objects lying around on the floor. Place loose electrical cords and telephone wires out of walking areas. Remove or secure any loose rugs or mats.
    		• Be sure hallways and staircases are well-lighted. (If the hallway or staircase in your building is not well-lighted, call the superintendent.) Place lamps in dark areas. If you walk into a dark area let your eyes adjust first to the dark before moving forward.
    		• Keep the items near you that you will need when getting up including your glasses, cane and walker. This is especially important before going to bed and when sitting down in a chair or at a table.
    		• Be especially careful if your bathroom floor becomes wet. Clean up all kitchen and other spills immediately to avoid creating a dangerous environment to move around in.
    		• Sit in higher chairs or chairs with arm rests – they are easier to get out of. Get out of your bed or chair slowly. Sit completely upright before standing.
    		• Be sure all clothing is the appropriate size and length. For example, long nightgowns or bathrobes can create a tripping hazard.
    		• All footwear should have non-slip soles and wearing only socks should be avoided especially when walking on non-carpeted areas.
    		• If you do fall, DON’T PANIC! Try using a stable chair or some other piece of furniture to help you get up. If you can, slide or crawl to the telephone or front door and call for help. If you cannot get up, try calling out for help.
    		• If you are concerned about falling while being alone in the house, consider buying a personal emergency response system. With the press of a button, you can call for help. To learn more about the these systems available at VNA, click here.