Falls are the number one injury we see in our Trauma Center. That’s why Parkview Trauma Center has developed a new campaign called Know Falls. Below are some tips to help you and the ones you love avoid falling.
1. Arrange time to see the physician
- Prepare a list of your medications for your physician to review.
- If you have fallen before, explain to the physician the details of your fall, including when, where and cause.
- Be aware that certain eye and ear disorders create dizziness, which increases your risk of falling.
2. Stay active
- Stay active! With your doctor’s approval, you may consider activities such as aquatics, walking or tai chi.
- Reduce your stress by doing tai chi exercises that involve calming movements.
- Avoiding physical activity that includes walking or exercising may increase the risk of an injury from a fall.
3. Choose proper footwear
- Have your feet measured at the time you buy shoes, because the size of your feet change over time.
- Buy sturdy shoes with nonskid soles.
- Purchase lace-up shoes for walking, instead of thick-soled shoes, slip-ons or flip-flops, all of which increase your risk of tripping.
4. Avoid home hazards
- Clear walkways in high-traffic areas.
- Secure loose rugs with double-sided tape or a slip-resistant backing. In the tub and shower, use a nonslip mat.
- Clean liquid spills immediately.
5. Light up your home
- Place night-lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways for better visibility.
- Place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs.
- Keep flashlights in easy-to-find locations in case of a power outage or an emergency.
6. Use assistive devices use handrails for both sides of stairways.
- Install a raised toilet seat, or add armrests for the toilet.
- Purchase grab bars and/or a chair for the shower or tub.
- Use a cane or walker if recommended by your doctor.
To learn more about the Know Falls program please call Parkview Trauma Centers at (260) 373-7201 .