Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans 65+ falls each year?
Falls are the number one cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries to older adults. The annual cost of falls is $50 billion, and it is estimated that by the year 2030, that number will reach over $101 billion. Even if you’re healthy or have talked with your healthcare provider, it’s important to be aware of your risks.
Use these questions from the “Free Falls CheckUp” created by the National Council on Aging to do a self-assessment and determine the factors that could cause you to fall. Answering yes to any of the questions below will help identify what may be hazardous to you, and give you a way to start conversations about fall prevention with family and doctors. Take the quiz:
I have fallen in the past year.
Yes
No
I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely.
Yes
No
Sometimes I feel unsteady when I am walking.
Yes
No
I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home.
Yes
No
I am worried about falling.
Yes
No
I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair.
Yes
No
I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb.
Yes
No
I often have to rush to the toilet.
Yes
No
Do a home safety check-up to make sure your home environment is safe inside and out!
Use these quick tips:
- Secure rugs to the floor
- Add lighting to keep your home well lit
- Keep stairs in good repair and add secure railings
- Install grab bars in the shower
- Remove clutter from walkways and staircases
- Wear good shoes inside and outside your home