Help prevent falls with these tips

Many older people and their caregivers fear falling. That fear may lead older people to avoid activities like walking, shopping, or taking part in social activities. Check out these tips to help you reduce the risk of falls for your loved one: Help arrange routine vision and hearing tests. Even small changes in vision and hearing may cause falls. Understand medication side effects. Ask the person if any drug makes them feel sleepy or dizzy and report that to the doctor or pharmacist. Remind the person to stand up slowly. Getting up too quickly can cause blood pressure to drop. This can make you feel wobbly. Encourage the person to use an assistive device if the person feels unsteady while walking. Appropriate use of canes and walkers can prevent falls. Learn more about preventing falls and fractures on our website.   Share this information with others on social media: Many older adults have a fear of falling. Help them feel more secure with tips to help reduce fall risk: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/prevent-falls-and-fractures