Preventing Falls

Information to keep you safe and active.

Falls are a major cause of injury, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, every second of every day an older adult falls. Henry Ford Health is committed to keeping our patients safe, not only in our facilities, but also in their daily lives.

Am I at risk for a fall?

• I have trouble seeing.
• I have a hard time hearing.
• I have had a stroke.
• I sometimes feel dizzy.
• I have trouble walking.
• I don’t know the side effects of the medicine I take.
• I have fallen in the past 6 months.

How can I stop falls?

• Don’t forget to drink enough water.
• Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about how to safely take your medicines.
• Always wear your glasses.
• Always wear your hearing aids.
• Make sure your walker or cane is at the right height.
• Wear shoes that don’t slip.
• Take your time when moving or walking.
• Watch out for spills, cords or other obstacles.
• Stay active

How do I stay active?

• Participating in an exercise program (water aerobics, chair exercises, Tai Chi, yoga, etc.).
• Walking
• Join your local senior center.

How do I stay safe when I’m out and about?

• Wear sensible shoes.
• Use a cane or walker, if you have one. This not only helps you stay steady, but alerts others to be more careful around you.
• Be aware of your surroundings and any obstacles or hazards.
• Avoid carrying extra items in your hands.
• Use handrails if available.
• Don’t rush, move slowly.

Most fall incidents occur in the home. How do I make my home safe?

Can you get out of bed and easily walk to the bathroom?

• Use a nightlight so you can see where you are going.
• Put a lamp where you can reach it from bed.
• If you are dizzy, sit on the edge of the bed until the feeling passes.

Do you have to walk around things in your house?

• Ask someone to move things so you have a clear path.
• Keep power cords out of pathways.
• Be careful of oxygen tubing as you move around your house.

Do you have rugs on the floor?

• Take the rugs out.
• Use double-sided tape or non-skid strips on the backs of the rugs to secure them.

Are things on high shelves in the kitchen or bathroom?

• Move things to lower cabinets.
• Never use a chair as a step stool, use a step stool with a bar to hold onto.

 Is your tub or shower slippery?

• Have someone install grab bars.
• Put a non-slip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower.
• Do not use a towel rack as a grab bar.

Do you have a way to call for help if you fall?

• Wear a medical alert device.
• Hands-free Alexa/Google device
• Make sure to have your cell phone with you (in your pocket, a pouch, etc.)
• Keep a list of emergency numbers.

Where can I find more information?

• Henry Ford Caregiver Resources
• AgeWays Southeast Michigan
• STEADI Program from Centers for Disease Control
• National Council on Aging
• Check your risk for a fall