Guard Your Independence! Protect Yourself from Falls

What’s the Problem? One out of three over age 65 fall each year Serious health risk Seniors lose their independence One half to two-thirds of falls happen at home Cost: $43.8 billion by 2020

Risk Factors Lower body weakness Problems with walking and balance Multiple medications Other health conditions

Reduce Your Risk Exercise regularly Review medications Pay attention to your health Make your home safer

Exercise Regularly Increase upper and lower body strength Work on hand strength Improve balance and coordination Increase overall sense of well-being

Review Medications Reduce side effects and interactions See a doctor or pharmacist

Pay Attention to Your Health Make regular visits to your doctor Monitor recurring health issues Schedule vision and hearing checks

Make Your Home Safer Easy Modifications Design Changes

Look for Common Risk Factors Tripping hazards Lack of railings or grab bars Slippery surfaces Awkward reaches, storage Poor lighting Unstable furniture

Easy Modifications Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Closets

More Easy Modifications! Floors Hallways, steps, stairs Lighting Entrances, doors

Making Design Changes Improve accessibility and adaptability Incorporate Universal Design principles Build safety into your pre-retirement plans

Do It Now! For those who live there AND your visitors! Maximize your return on investment Piggyback your projects

Who Can Help? Health care provider Public health department Centers for Disease Control Minnesota Safety Council seniorsafe/falls AARP

Sources Administration on Aging, United States Department of Health and Human Services U.S. Centers for Disease Control Produced by the Minnesota Safety Council with funding from the National Safety Council Copyright 2004