Reduce Your Risk at Every Age

Falling is one of the most underestimated dangers. Most falls occur while simply walking or doing day-to-day tasks, and our risk increases as we age. Among adults aged 65 and over, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths.

There is a misconception that falling is an inevitable part of aging, but most falls are preventable. National Falls Prevention Awareness Month, in September, reminds us to take steps to reduce our risk. Check below for tips and strategies to stay safe.

You can also join Mystic Valley Aging Services in raising awareness about falls prevention. Every year, our team participates in a Falls Prevention Walk (pictured) and a Step Challenge to raise awareness. The Step Challenge is statewide, hosted by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE). Our team tracks our steps throughout the month, helping AGE meet its goal of 100 million steps. You can join in the Step Challenge by entering your steps online. Last year, Mystic Valley Aging Services won the Step Challenge with a team total of over 11.7 million steps! We’re excited to participate again this year, and we hope you’ll join us in raising awareness that falls are preventable.

Steps for Prevention

Stay active: Maintaining and building strength and balance are proven to reduce fall risk. Mystic Valley Aging Services offers a course called A Matter of Balance, which is evidence-based and shown to reduce falls, enhance mobility, diminish fear of falling and improve participants’ ability to manage falls safely. Led by trained coaches, the course is hands-on and interactive. We also provide classes in tai chi, which is excellent for balance, flexibility, and control. Like all our Healthy Aging programs, these classes are free and take place at senior centers and other community sites. Learn more on our website or call 781-324-7705. If you live outside of our 11 communities, you can find your local aging services agency on mass.gov.

Know your medications: Many prescription drugs cause side effects that contribute to falls. Regardless of your age, dizziness, blurry vision, and drowsiness can impact your balance and coordination. Talk to your physician about your prescriptions, including dosages, the combined effects of multiple medications, and the time of day you take them.

Assess home hazards: Slippery throw rugs, poor lighting, and hallway clutter all increase your chance of falling. Consider installing grab bars in the bathroom, a common site for falls. Companies that specialize in safety modifications can typically evaluate your home for hazards. If you need help getting started with a home assessment or safety modifications, contact your care manager at MVAS. If you don’t have a Mystic Valley care manager, call 781-324-7705 or email [email protected].

Remember the basics: Get regular eye exams and promptly update your glasses prescription. Choose supportive footwear that promotes balance and stability. When standing, especially after sleeping, move slowly and deliberately.

Evaluate your risk factors: The Falls Free CheckUp, offered by the National Council on Aging, can help you understand which risk factors affect you and how to address them.