Public Health and Environment Division
Senior Fall Prevention
Older adults value their independence and ability to successfully age in place. Unexpected falls are a major threat to the health and independence of older adults aged 65 and above. More than one-third of people aged 65 and older fall each year. While statistics show that falls occur often in older adults, there are opportunities to prevent falls and to help them live longer, healthier lives.
Some Common Ways to Prevent Falls:
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Have your vision checked. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling.
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Exercise. Exercises that improve balance and coordination are helpful to reduce your chances of falling.
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Talk to your healthcare provider before starting an exercise program.
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Have your healthcare provider and/or pharmacist review your medications. Even some over-the counter medications or combinations of medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy and might cause you to fall.
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Make your home safer.
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Remove tripping hazards.
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Keep curtains and bed coverings off the floor.
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Remove throw rugs.
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Install safety grab bars.
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Install night lights.
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Add lighting to dark areas, especially in stairways.
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Tighten loose handrails.
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Never use a chair as a step stool.
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Use only step stools with a bar to hold onto.
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Make sure both sides of all stairs and landings have sturdy railings.
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Use a safety bath mat or safety tub treads.
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Clean up any spills quickly.
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Have a light and a phone reachable from your bed.
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Install a phone near the floor in case you fall and can’t get up.
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Keep emergency numbers in large print near each phone.
The following resources help seniors live safely in their own homes by helping them avoid falls:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention-Falls- Older Adults
National Council on Aging (NCOA)-Fall Prevention
NCOA Fall Prevention and Safety Checklist
Center for Healthy Aging Fall Prevention Resources
Fall Prevention Checklist from Minnesota Safety Council
Denver Regional Council of Governments-Fall Prevention Information
For additional information about fall prevention resources, call (720) 887-2213 or send an e-mail to mthatcher@broomfield.org.