How Seniors Can Prevent Falls & Injuries

The CDC reports that every year, 37 million older adults suffer from falls, leading to 3 million emergency room visits. To help reduce the risk, the National Council on Aging provides a free online tool, Falls Free CheckUp, to help assess your fall risk and offer valuable prevention resources.

Looking for ways to stay safe and steady? Porters Neck Village in Wilmington, NC, is here to help! Check out these five easy ways for older adults to prevent falls and injuries:

Design Your Home Thoughtfully

Since we spend so much time at home, it’s essential to create a living space that reduces tripping hazards and helps prevent falls. Here are some simple ways to make your home safer:

Keep walkways clear of cords, clutter, and other obstacles.
Secure rugs with non-slip pads or double-sided tape to prevent slipping.
Ensure proper lighting, especially in high-risk areas like bathrooms and stairwells.
Install sturdy handrails on stairs and grab bars in the bathroom—particularly near the toilet and shower—for extra support.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Whether you’re indoors or outside, staying mindful of potential tripping hazards can help with fall prevention for seniors. Keep an eye out for:

Uneven sidewalks or pavement that could cause a misstep.
Furniture legs that stick out unexpectedly.
Items left on the floor, like bags, purses, or shoes.
Slippery hazards such as wet leaves, sticks, or puddles.

Additionally, wearing sturdy footwear with good traction can provide extra stability and reduce the risk of slipping, no matter where you are.

Improve Your Balance with Simple Exercises

Staying steady on your feet is key to preventing falls. Here’s an easy balance exercise to strengthen your stability:

Stand next to or behind a sturdy, non-wheeled chair. Hold onto it for support if needed.
Shift your weight onto one leg and lift the other foot slightly off the ground.
Hold the position for a few seconds, then switch legs and repeat.

To further enhance stability, consider using a stylish cane or walking stick. With a variety of designs available, they can be both a practical tool — and a fashionable accessory!

Learn How to Fall Safely

Even with the best precautions, falls can still happen. Knowing how to fall correctly can help reduce the risk of serious injury:

Aim for a softer landing – If possible, try to land on a fleshy area like your bottom to absorb the impact.
Protect your wrists – Instead of locking your arms straight, bend your elbows to reduce strain if catching yourself with your hands.
Go with the motion – Try to roll with the fall rather than stopping abruptly to lessen the impact on your joints.
Protect your head – If falling forward, turn your head to the side to avoid facial injuries. If falling backward, tuck your chin toward your chest to shield the back of your head.

While no one wants to fall, knowing these techniques can help minimize injury and encourage a safer, quicker recovery.

Reduce Fall Risks With a Senior Living Community

Choosing a senior living or retirement community can significantly lower the risk of falls for older adults by providing thoughtfully designed spaces with:

Regularly maintained sidewalks and pathways, reducing risks from ice, snow, and uneven pavement.
Wide walkways, elevators, and step-free entrances that make navigating your home easier and safer.
On-site fitness and balance programs to strengthen your stability with easily accessible classes and activities. At Porters Neck Village, you can join our certified personal trainers, pool, resident garden, golfing green, wide range of exercise classes, and more — all as part of our 8 Dimensions of Wellness program!

Embrace a Carefree Lifestyle at Porters Neck Village

Live independently while enjoying a vibrant community designed with your safety and comfort in mind. With thoughtfully planned amenities and a welcoming environment, you can focus on what truly matters—living life to the fullest!

Ready to learn more? Contact us today and discover Porters Neck Village in Wilmington, NC.