news detail
Print this page
How To Prevent Falls
Here are some ideas we picked up from the Family Caregiver Handbook by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
There are a great number of simple and practical things you can do to reduce the risk and fear of falling. Encourage your parent to:
- Have routine eye exams and wear glasses, if necessary.
- Have routine hearing exams and use a hearing aide, if necessary.
- Do strengthening or balance exercises.*
- Use a walker or other needed assistive devices.
- Exercise.*
- Get up slowly after sitting or laying down.
- Reduce fire hazards in the home.
- Have medications reviewed by the doctor.
* Your parent may need to talk with a doctor before beginning an exercise program.
We think this Family Caregiver Handbook (PDF) is a terrific guide - it's practical and easy to read.
Upon entering any medical facility, make sure the information on your parent’s ID bracelet is correct. Then, whenever medication is being dispensed, be sure the nurse checks that same bracelet.
