Risk Factors
1 in 4 adults over the age of 65 in the U.S. experiences this each year
What is a fall?
What is the bathroom?
Wearing these at all times when walking can prevent slips and falls
What are supportive, non-slip shoes?
If you have a prescription for these, you should wear them and keep them clean
What are glasses?
Every year, more than 3 million older adults go here after a fall
What is the emergency department?
Not drinking enough water can cause this symptom, which increases the chance of falling.
What is dizziness or lightheadedness?
These should be installed next to toilets and in showers to support balance.
What are grab bars?
You should avoid doing this while walking, especially when using a cane or walker
What is multi-tasking? (e.g., using your phone, etc.)
These assistive devices, when properly fitted, can help you walk more safely
What is a cane or a walker?
Outside of the home, this is the most common place where falls occur in the community.
What are parking lots, sidewalks, and uneven curbs?
A fear of this can actually cause someone to become less active and increase their fall risk
What is a fear of falling?
This common household item on the floor often causes people to trip.
What are throw rugs?
Standing up too fast can make you feel dizzy. Doing this instead can help
What is standing up slowly and pausing before walking?
This device, when added to your toilet, can make it easier to get on and off independently and safely.
What is a raised toilet seat?
This is the most common injury that sends older adults to the hospital after a fall.
What is a hip fracture?
Conditions like Parkinson's disease or a stroke can raise your fall risk by affecting this
What is your balance?
Adding this to stairways helps improve visibility during nighttime hours.
Understanding these, including when to take them, what they help with, and how they make you feel, can help you avoid a fall
What are medications?
This wearable device can call for help if you fall
What is a medical alert device (or Life Alert)?
According to the CDC, doing these regularly can reduce your risk of falling by up to 35%
What is participating in a balance and strength exercise program? (Tai-Chi, Yoga, OT/PT led exercise programs)
This blood pressure issue happens when you move from lying or sitting to standing.
What is a drop in blood pressure when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension)?
This type of flooring is best for reducing slips
What is non-slip flooring (e.g., textured tile)?
It is important to have your vision and hearing checked this often to reduce fall risk
What is annually, or immediately if you notice any changes?
This voice-activated device can be used to call for help if you fall and can’t reach a phone.
What is a smart speaker or virtual assistant? (Alexa, Siri, etc.)
Less than half of older adults do this after they fall, even though it’s very important.
What is tell their doctor?