eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Prevent Falling as a Senior

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Falling is one of the greatest hazards to the health of a senior citizen. After a senior has a serious injury, his health may deteriorate. Take some precautions against serious falls.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Begin an exercise program. Many special programs are designed for seniors to keep their body toned and conditioned so that if they do fall, they don't get hurt. Tai Chi is especially helpful for maintaining balance and coordination.

  2. Step 2

    Join an exercise group or exercise with a friend. The more enjoyable your exercise program is, the more likely you'll keep doing it.

  3. Step 3

    Exercise while lying in bed. Stretch and tone your muscles where you won't risk any danger from falling.

  4. Step 4

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review the prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take. Some drugs can interact with each other, producing side effects such as dizziness.

  5. Step 5

    Make sure to have your eyes checked every year. The wrong glasses, cataracts or glaucoma can inhibit vision and increase the chances of falling.

  6. Step 6

    Assess your home to see how you can make it safer. Light up your house with more light fixtures and lamps. Install lights and handrails along your staircases. Utilize non-slip mats and grab bars in the bathtub or shower, and also install grab bars near the toilet.

  7. Step 7

    Remove obstacles that could cause you to trip, like rugs. Also, wear shoes indoors and outdoors, since being barefoot or in slippers can cause you to trip.

Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. † requires javascript

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health