Safety/Fall Prevention

Who needs to be concerned about safety?

Safety strategies to protect your bones are important for individuals of all ages. It is imperative for everyone to protect their bones and overall health by wearing seatbelts in any moving vehicle and by using appropriate protective equipment when participating in sports. If you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, you may be more likely to break a bone as a result of a fall. In fact, most broken bones happen as a result of a fall. Falls happen for many reasons, most of which can be avoided.

How can I reduce my risk for falling in my home?

It is important to do a home safety check on a regular basis to identify and modify falling hazards. Sometimes it is hard to recognize hazards in your own home so consider asking a friend or family member to help you safeguard your home. Using a checklist can assist you in safe-proofing your environment. (See: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control Publication entitled "Check For Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults", the National Osteoporosis Foundation Falls Prevention Checklist, or the Texas Cooperative Extension checklist). Just a few of the steps that you can take to fall-proof your environment include securing throw rugs, using nightlights, and installing grab bars in your bathroom. In addition, it is also very important to prevent and avoid wet, slippery floors both inside and outside of your home.

What are some other strategies for fall prevention?

• Get regular vision and hearing exams - Poor vision and hearing loss are common reasons for falls. It is important to have your hearing and vision checked on a regular basis by your medical professional.
• Know the side effects of the medications that you take - If you take medications, it is important to know the possible side effects. Some medications can cause dizziness or lightheadedness and increase your risk for falls. For more information about the potential side effects of your medication, speak to your pharmacist.
• Take precautions for outdoor safety - It is important to avoid walking on slippery surfaces and to be cautious walking on cracks and uneven surfaces. Another wise safety choice is park in well-lit areas at night.
• Use assistive devices as needed - There are many assistive devices such as canes, walkers, and grabbers to help individuals who are at increased risk for falling. A consultation with a physical therapist or occupational therapist is often beneficial to find the right assistive device for a person who is more likely to fall.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption - Consuming excessive alcohol can impair balance and increase your risk for falling.
• Use proper body mechanics and the principles of safe movement. 
• Select clothing and footwear with safety in mind.

What are the recommendations for safe dressing?

• Wear flat shoes with rubber, non-skid soles- It is important to avoid high heels, slippers, and running shoes with thick soles.
• Shorten and even hemlines to avoid tripping- Hanging hemlines and wide-legged pants should be avoided to prevent catching your heel. 
• Choose a lightweight purse that leaves your hands free such as a fanny pack or nylon/canvas style backpack.
• Avoid leather or other heavy shoulder bags.
• Speak to your medical professional to find out if it would be beneficial to wear undergarments with hip protectors. If you are excessively thin and/or at high risk for falling, hip protectors provide extra cushioning that may protect the hip in the event of a fall. It is important to speak to your medical professional about your personal risks for falling and about the fall prevention steps you should take to protect your bones.