Have a Terrific Autumn (but Not a Great Fall)
by Mary Beth King, Medica

An ounce of prevention is said to be worth a pound of cure. When it comes to falls, however, an ounce of prevention may be worth a ton of cure.

Fact: Every year, more than 11 million people over age 65 suffer a fall. Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

When a fall occurs, the first concern is that the person has suffered a broken bone or other traumatic injury. However, there are many other potential complications. For example, a broken hipbone can lead to an inability to perform normal skills of daily living, resulting in a significant loss of independence and quality of life. A fall-related injury can also cause or aggravate conditions such as arthritis, weakness, poor balance and depression.

Fortunately, preventing falls is much easier, more affordable and quicker than getting treatment after a fall occurs. Here are some common causes of falls and how you can avoid them:

Problem 1: Unsafe footwear
Solution: Do not walk around in socks or smooth-soled slippers. Instead, choose footwear with non-slip soles, and keep shoelaces firmly knotted.

Problem 2: Unsecured area rugs
Solution: It’s best not to use throw rugs. If you do use throw rugs, secure each rug with double-sided tape, tacks or slip-resistant matting.

Problem 3: Items left on stairways or floors
Solution: Keep stairs, halls and walkways clear of clutter. Do not use these areas for storing items, even for a short time. Arrange your rooms so that you have clear pathways for walking without bumping into furniture.

Problem 4: Slippery sidewalks and driveways
Solution: Keep walking and driving surfaces clear of leaves, snow and ice. If you can’t safely remove debris yourself, have someone do it for you.

Problem 5: Loose or broken stair rails.
Solution: Make sure you have secure handrails on both sides of all stairways, indoors and outdoors. If necessary, ask a friend or hire a handyman to help you install or repair handrails.

Problem 6: Getting in or out of the bathtub
Solution: Install grab bars or other safety devices to help make it easier for you to stand up, step into and step out of the tub or shower. The bottom of your bathtub or shower should have a non-skid surface that provides secure footing.

Problem 7: Pets who walk underfoot
Solution: Keep pets in cages or specific areas of your home, especially at night when you may be more likely to trip over them in the dark.

Problem 8: Dark or shadowed areas indoors and outdoors
Solution: Use lamps, nightlights or outdoor spotlights to illuminate darkened areas where you walk.

Problem 9: Overreaching, such as trying to retrieve items from closet or cabinet.
Solution: Arrange closets and cabinets so that the items you need are within easy reach. If you must reach onto a high shelf, avoid using chairs or footstools. Instead, ask a friend, family member or neighbor for help.

Problem 10: Dizziness, drowsiness or other side effects of medications
Solution: Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any of your medications–individually or in combination–may cause side effects that could increase your risk of falling.

With careful planning and a few minutes of preventive housekeeping, you can take some major steps toward insuring that your every step is safe, sound and secure.

10 more home safety tips:
1. To avoid accidental burns, make sure your water heater is set no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Use light bulbs with appropriate wattage for your lamps. Used incorrectly, high-wattage bulbs may cause fires.
3. Check your prescription and over-the-counter medications regularly and dispose of any that are out of date.
4. Change the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors twice per year. Many people do this when they reset their clocks in the spring and fall for daylight saving time.
5. Think about using an emergency call service, such as the kind that allows you to summon help via a button on a pendant or wristband.
6. Unplug hair dryers and other small electrical appliances when you’re not using them.
7. Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor of your home, plus an extra one in the kitchen.
8. Place stickers on glass doors to prevent others from walking into them.
9. Make sure your house number is visible from the street, so emergency personnel can find you quickly if needed.
10. Keep a flashlight within easy reach of your bed. Check the batteries often to make sure the flashlight is always in working order.