Guest Blog: Assemble a Falls Prevention Team and Put Your Best Foot Forward

Assemble a Falls Prevention Team and Put Your Best Foot Forward

Falling is so common among older adults that many people think it is a normal part of aging and can only be avoided by staying at home. Fortunately, both are myths. With some preparation, we can stay safely on our feet as we age, living active and independent lives in the communities we love.

More than one in four older adults fall each year, but it is not an inevitable part of aging and can be prevented. For older adults beginning to feel vulnerable, that can seem like an overwhelming task. It’s important to remember that it’s not a one-person job. Falls prevention is best approached as a team sport. Doctors can monitor health to ensure safe movement. Occupational therapists can adjust assistive devices for best fit. And pharmacists can explain medication side effects that can impair movement. 

Easy Home Modifications

(Above) Grab bars in the bathroom of Keezletown Farmhouse beside the toilet and in the roll-in shower.

Some of the most important aspects of falls prevention, however, can take place right in our homes with the support of friends and family. Here are five easy home modifications to consider making right now:

• • Secure the bathrooms – Buy a shower seat, install grab bars, and switch to adjustable height, handheld shower heads. 
  • Let there be light – When bulbs burn out, replace them with bright, non-glare bulbs.
  • Clear the clutter – Don’t put items on stairs. Remove clutter and throw rugs that can slip.
  • Organize the go-to’s – Place frequently used items between waist and shoulder height.
  • Put a bell on Buckley – Consider putting a small bell on dog or cat collars if pets are frequently underfoot. They can be a trip hazard so knowing where they are is helpful.
  • Control the cords – If possible, keep cords out of the way by running them along a wall or behind furniture. If that’s not possible, tape the entire cord to the floor. 
  • Repair any loose brick or pavement on outdoor walkways and steps.

Upcoming Best Foot Forward Falls Prevention Open Houses

In addition to health care providers and family, community experts in aging are trained to help prevent falls.  Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is offering Best Foot Forward Falls Prevention Open Houses in September for older adults and caregivers. 

In Harrisonburg, Best Foot Forward will be held on Wednesday Sept. 25 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Simms Center Auditorium. Bring along a friend or family member for personalized falls risk assessments, Tai Chi and assistive technology demonstrations, door prizes, refreshments and more.

In Waynesboro, join the Best Foot Forward Fair on Thursday, Sept. 26 from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Waynesboro Senior Services. There will be personalized fall risks assessments, gait testing, refreshments, demos, and door prizes. The Augusta Health Mobile Clinic will be on site from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

For more information about falls prevention open houses, visit vpas.info/education, or call 1-800-868-VPAS. 

Contributed by: Leigh-Anne Lees, VPAS Community Relations Director