What is fall prevention?

Dementia raises fall risk partly because it changes depth perception, the ability to judge how near or far things are. The National Institute on Aging explains that a person with Alzheimer's may think a change in floor pattern, such as carpet to tile, is a step, and stumble or trip. Because bones generally get weaker with age, a fall is also more likely to cause a fracture in older adults.

Remove trip hazards and make the home easy to read visually. The National Institute on Aging suggests marking step edges with brightly colored tape, installing grab bars in the tub, shower and beside the toilet, using nonskid strips and mats, adding nightlights or automatic light sensors, and installing bed rails and other transfer aids. A room monitor can alert you to a fall during the night.

Stay active, build balance and strength, and make the home safer. The National Institute on Aging also advises having eyes and hearing tested, asking about medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness, standing up slowly, limiting alcohol, wearing nonskid, low-heeled shoes, and using a correctly sized cane or walker if needed. More than one in four people aged 65 or older fall each year.

Stay calm, check for injury before moving, and call 911 if the person is hurt or cannot get up. The National Institute on Aging advises resting for a few moments, then, only if it seems safe, rolling onto one side, crawling to a sturdy chair and rising slowly. Always tell the doctor about a fall, even without pain, because it can reveal a new medical or medication problem.

A fall prevention checklist covers every room: secure handrails on both sides of stairs, good lighting with switches at both ends, no throw rugs or clutter on the floor, grab bars by the toilet and tub, nonskid mats on wet surfaces, and night lights near the bed and bathroom. The National Institute on Aging also suggests keeping electrical cords away from walking paths and everyday items within easy reach.