Slips Trips and Falls Prevention Strategies This presentation

Slips, Trips and Falls: Prevention Strategies This presentation has been produced with permission from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STRAC LOGO

What will I learn? � 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

Facts about falls � 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

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

Causes of falls � Osteoporosis (bone strength) � Foot problems, unsafe shoes � Dizziness � Muscle weakness � Nutrition � Immobility � Medications � Heart problems

Injuries from falls � Broken ◦ ◦ ◦ Hip Pelvis Arms Legs Back � Head bones injuries

What happens if I am injured? � 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

What can I do to prevent falls? � 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

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

What about my Medications? � 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

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

How can I manage my medications better? � 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

Good information for your doctor � 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?

What about my sight? � 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

What’s involved with a eye exam? � 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

What can be done for my eye problems? � Corrective lenses/contact lenses � Sunglasses � Medications � Surgery

What are the hazards in my home? � Floors ◦ ◦ Furniture Throw rugs – slip/moisture resistant Objects on the floor – wire, cords, telephone Stairs and steps - clutter

Home hazards continued… 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

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

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

Home Assessment – con’t � 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

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

How can I make my life safer? � 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