Alaska Senior Fall Prevention
Take precautions to prevent falls
Overview
Did you know accidental falls are one of the leading causes of injury among Alaskans aged 65 and older, often resulting in serious harm like brain injuries or hip fractures? Many of these falls can be prevented by taking steps to reduce your risk.
Facts & data
Myth 1: Falling happens to other people, not to me.
Myth 1: Falling happens to other people, not to me.
Reality: Many people think, "It won't happen to me." But the truth is that 1 in 4 older adults fall every year in the U.S.
Myth 2: Falling is something normal that happens as you get older.
Myth 2: Falling is something normal that happens as you get older.
Reality: Falling is not a natural part of aging. You can prevent falls by doing strength and balance exercises, managing medications, checking your vision, and making your home safer.
Myth 3: If I limit my activity, I won't fall.
Myth 3: If I limit my activity, I won't fall.
Reality: Some think staying home and limiting activity is the best way to prevent falls—but that’s not true. Staying active helps you maintain independence by improving strength and range of motion. Participating in social activities also supports your overall health.
Myth 4: As long as I stay at home, I can avoid falling.
Myth 4: As long as I stay at home, I can avoid falling.
Reality: Over half of all falls occur at home. Inspect your space for fall risks. Fix hazards like clutter, throw rugs, and poor lighting. Make simple home modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs, and non-slip paint on outdoor steps.
Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can't be regained.
Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can't be regained.
Reality: While we do lose muscle as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late to start an exercise program. Even if you've been a "couch potato" your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many ways—including protection from falls.
Myth 6: Taking medication doesn't increase my risk of falling.
Myth 6: Taking medication doesn't increase my risk of falling.
Reality: Taking any medication may increase your risk of falling. Medications affect people in many different ways and can sometimes make you dizzy or sleepy. Be careful when starting a new medication. Talk to your health care provider about potential side effects or interactions of your medications.
Myth 7: I don't need to get my vision checked every year.
Myth 7: I don't need to get my vision checked every year.
Reality: Vision is a key risk factor for falls. Aging can lead to vision loss, which increases the risk of falling and injury. People with vision problems are more than twice as likely to fall as those without visual impairment. Have your eyes checked at least once a year and update your eyeglasses. For those with low vision, programs and assistive devices are available. Ask your optometrist for a referral.
Myth 8: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.
Myth 8: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.
Reality: Walking aids are very important in helping many older adults maintain or improve their mobility. However, make sure you use these devices safely. Have a physical therapist fit the walker or cane to you and instruct you in its safe use.
Myth 9: I don’t need to talk to family members or my health care provider if I’m concerned about my risk of falling. I don’t want to alarm them, and I want to keep my independence.
Myth 9: I don’t need to talk to family members or my health care provider if I’m concerned about my risk of falling. I don’t want to alarm them, and I want to keep my independence.
Reality: Fall prevention is a team effort. Bring it up with your doctor, family, and anyone else who is in a position to help. They want to help you maintain your mobility and reduce your risk of falling.
Myth 10: I don't need to talk to my parent, spouse, or other older adult if I’m concerned about their risk of falling. It will hurt their feelings, and it's none of my business.
Myth 10: I don't need to talk to my parent, spouse, or other older adult if I’m concerned about their risk of falling. It will hurt their feelings, and it's none of my business.
Reality: Let them know about your concerns and offer support to help them maintain the highest degree of independence possible. There are many things you can do, including removing hazards in the home, installing safety features like grab bars or walk-in bathtubs, finding a falls prevention program in the community, or setting up a vision exam.”
Solution
Begin a regular exercise program. Have your health care provider review your medications. Have your vision checked every year. Make your home safer.