This presentation has been produced with permission from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STRAC LOGO

 Identify slip, trip and falls hazards  Discuss ways to avoid injuries from falls  Discuss the importance of movement  Review medications that may cause falls  Discuss why eye exams are needed

 Population over 60 is growing  Encouraged to remain active  One out of every 3 persons over age 65 falls each year  Fear of falling limits activities

 Elderly often live in homes with small children and pets  Half of the falls occur in the home  Falls are preventable!!

 Osteoporosis (bone strength)  Foot problems, unsafe shoes  Dizziness  Muscle weakness  Nutrition  Immobility  Medications  Heart problems

 Broken bones ◦ Hip ◦ Pelvis ◦ Arms ◦ Legs ◦ Back  Head injuries

 Hip fractures result in hospitalization for up to one week  One in four have long term care for one year  Injuries to arms or legs reduces your ability to care for yourself

 Move even while sitting!!!  Start Simple  Set a Schedule, make it a new habit  Start Slowly, gradually increase time  Write it down/keep a record  Reward yourself  Be aware of your surroundings

 Sit and Fit – Chair exercises  Individualized Program  Groups  Tai Chi  Walking – pedometer  Water activities  Always visit with your doctor before starting before starting an exercise program

 May increase fall risk  Aging affects how medications work  Some medications may not work well together  Over the counter drugs/herbs may increase fall risks  Medications which require careful monitoring, such as blood thinners, blood pressure, diuretics, pain and heart medications  Not taking medications correctly

 Blurred vision  Change in blood pressure  Dizziness upon standing  Confusion, impaired judgment  Sleepiness  Lack of coordination  Short term memory loss

 Read the directions – ask for larger print on the label  Take only as directed  Use pill boxes to organize and arrange meds  Keep a list of all of your health care issues, medications and emergency family contacts  Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your medications

 How am I feeling – any changes??  How am I eating?  How I am sleeping?  How much I am walking?  How I am thinking, such as difficulty remembering, reading, cooking, etc?

 Aging is a common cause for change in vision  Can increase fall risk  Some vision problems occur slowly and painlessly  Early diagnosis may reduce vision loss

 Visual clearness (acuity), depth, color perception, ability to focus and coordination of eyes  Examining eye structures with specialized equipment  Dilation of the pupils allows exam of the inside of the eye

 Corrective lenses/contact lenses  Sunglasses  Medications  Surgery

 Floors ◦ Furniture ◦ Throw rugs – slip/moisture resistant ◦ Objects on the floor – wire, cords, telephone ◦ Stairs and steps - clutter

o Loose uneven steps, loose carpet/rugs o Lights night light, top and bottom of stairs) o Handrails – toilet/shower/stairs o Carrying too much o Rolling chairs

Kitchen o Use lower shelves for frequently used items o No ladders or step stools o Watch for water on the floor o Use non-slip absorbent rugs next to sink o Keep appliance cords out of walkway

Bathrooms o Use non slip rubber mat in shower o Install handrails, grab bars – shower/toilet o Install raised toilet o Use shower chair with hand held shower

 Bedroom ◦ Lighting ◦ Where are your shoes? What type of shoes? ◦ Take your time once you sit up ◦ Robes should not touch the floor ◦ Clutter on floor ◦ Height of your bed

Living Room o Height of couch/chairs o Electrical cords o Lighting o Access to telephone

 Take control of your life  Stay as active as possible – get stronger  Talk to my doctor about my medications  Get my eyes checked regularly  Make my home safer for me