A fall, even one with no or minimal injury, can significantly impact the quality of life for older adults. This can lead to a fear of falls, loss of confidence, decreased activity, and social isolation, all of which increase the risk for future falls.

A fall with injury can have a more immediate impact affecting well-being, finances, and could even lead to a loss of independence.

Did you know:

• 1 in 4 people over age 65 fall every year in the US
• 29.3% of Wauwatosa households have a family member age 65 or older
• Falls are the #1 cause of non-natural deaths and injury in older adults
• Falls are not a natural part of aging and can be prevented

Community is Key

Fall prevention is an integral factor to healthy aging. There are local, in-person learning opportunities available to you or your loved ones.

• Take an evidence-based Stepping On group workshop proven to reduce falls by 31%. Learn more about Stepping On.
• Find a local workshop with the Milwaukee County Department of Aging Wellness

5 Steps to Prevent Falls

Exercise:
Starting a simple fall prevention specific exercise routine can improve your balance and strength which may help you a stop fall from happening.

• Join a local exercise class such as Tai Chi or Yoga
• Practice a daily exercise routine focused on strength and balance
• Talk to your doctor or physical therapist about exercises that are right for you

Home Safety:
Take a look at your home at least once a year to spot safety concerns. Refer to a Fall safety checklist for more tips:

• Remove throw rugs, cluttered areas, and trip hazards
• Add light to darkened hallways and stairways
• Install grab bars in bathrooms
• Keep items such as glasses within easy reach
• Slow down
• Be aware of distractions and prioritize your balance

Did you know that Wauwatosa has a 0% interest loan program that can help with home modifications such as accessibility improvements? Learn more about Wauwatosa's Home Repair program.

Check out other local programs that offer home safety assessments and modifications, such as Bridgeway Independent Living Designs.

Additional resources:

• Room by room fall safety (NIA)

Vision Checks:
Changes in your eye prescription may take a while to adapt to and increases fall risk. As we age eyes become slower to adjust to changes in light and are more affected by glare. Vision at night and in low light settings can be diminished and edges and can become blurry.

• Wear your glasses and keep them clean
• Wear sunglasses
• Scan area 6 feet in front of you as you walk. Avoid looking at your feet.
• Have your eyes checked yearly and if you experience any changes.

Visit Vision Forward for low vision services and adaptive products.

Foot checks and stable footwear:
As we age our feet change too. These changes may include strength in your feet and toes, and mobility in your ankles. Safe and stable footwear can greatly reduce your risk of falling.

What does stable footwear look like?

• The shoe or slipper fits well and is secured to your foot
• The sole has a good grip
• Your heel is supported and is no higher than 1.5 inches or too narrow

Have your feet checked for pain or any change in sensation, and have regular toenail routine.

Medication review:
Many medications and supplements we take every day can increase our risk of falling especially those that lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety or depression, and aid in sleep.

Some medications may interact together and cause unintentional effects.

Side effects that increase your risk are light headedness, dizziness, drowsiness, impaired balance, confusion, and slowed movements.

Review all side effects with your doctor.

• Ask your medical doctor or local pharmacist to review all medications.
• Keep an updated list of your medications including over the counter medications, herbs and supplements and bring it to all your appointments with you FDA Med list
• Stay informed. It is important to know what medications you take and how they affect you.
• Write down your questions and bring them to your medical appointments.

Additional Resources

• Falls Free Wisconsin is a comprehensive resource. Subscribe to their newsletter. Falls Free Wisconsin
• Take a falls free checkup Fall Free Checkup (NCOA)
• Wauwatosa Health Department participates in the Milwaukee County Falls Prevention Coalition, which works to provide education and resources MCFPC