Falls Prevention: The Balance For Life Program

Older Adult   Professional   Volunteer

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Information for the Older Adult

Balance is a skill you can keep — or recapture
Balance is a skill that almost all of us can keep throughout our lives. Much of the deterioration in balance associated with aging is simply due to lack of activity. Sometimes this happens because of change in lifestyle, or it can happen due to the fear of falling.

A strong body = fewer falls
Approximately half of seniors acknowledge a fear of falling. Unfortunately many people limit their activity due to this fear. Actually, inactivity makes it more likely that one will fall. Simple exercise such as tai chi has been shown as a prevention tool.

5 things you can do

1. Have your risk of falling assessed by contacting United Way or your health care provider
2. Make your home safer
   - Remove throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping
   - Remove things from the floor you can trip over like papers, books, clothes and shoes
   - Keep items you use often so you can reach easily without using a step stool
   - Have grab bars put in next to your toilet and in the tub or shower
   - Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors
   - Improve the lighting in your home
   - Have handrails and lights put in on all staircases
   - Wear low-heeled, sturdy shoes both inside and outside the house. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers.
3. Begin a regular exercise program, such as Tai Chi
   - Read an article and watch a video about the benefits of Tai Chi
4. Have your health care provider review your medicines
5. Have your vision checked

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For more information, please contact Lale Gerger at 904-390-3224 or LaleG@uwnefl.org