5 Tips for Reducing the Risk of Stumbles and Falls

Each year, millions of Americans suffer fall-related injuries, including sprains, bruises, and broken bones (fractures). Although falls can’t be entirely prevented, you can take steps to reduce your risk. 

At DeyeNAMICS, which has offices in Sacramento, California; Bellflower, California; Valencia, California; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Guildford, Connecticut; and Plano, Texas, the team of neuro-optometric rehabilitation specialists provides screening and rehabilitation for neuro-visual issues that can affect balance resulting in stumbles and falls. Here, we explain why aging increases the risk of falls and provide five simple tips for preventing them. 

Why Does Aging Increase the Risk of Stumbles and Falls?

Anyone can experience a stumble and fall, but these injuries most commonly affect older adults (people 65 and older). The natural aging process causes muscles to weaken, affecting their strength and stability, which are necessary for good balance. 

Older folks are also more likely to have poor vision and reduced sensation in their legs and feet, which can impact movements like walking down the hall or climbing up and down stairs. Further, many seniors take prescription medications, which often have side effects that can affect stability. Some individuals may also suffer from neuro-visual processing disorders that further affect their gait and balance. Visual midline shift and other disorders can disorient people and contribute to stumbles and falls resulting in unnecessary injuries.

Tips for Reducing the Risk of Stumbles and Falls

The good news is you can maintain your balance despite these risks. Start with these simple yet effective tips:

1. Talk to your Doctor about the Medications you Take

Nearly 89% of older adults take at least one prescription medication. Unfortunately, many of these drugs trigger side effects, like dizziness, that increase the risk of falling. If you take one or more prescription medications, nonprescription medications, or supplements, make an appointment with your primary care provider. 

They can evaluate each of the substances you take and determine whether they increase your risk of injury. Your provider may recommend weaning off medication or trying an alternative if any of the drugs make you tired or affect your balance or thinking. That’s especially true if you take sedatives, antihistamines, or antidepressants.

2. Exercise Regularly

Staying physically active is one of the best ways to maintain balance and reduce the risk of a stumble or fall. You don’t need to lift weights or buy a gym membership, but you should do activities that support strength, balance, and flexibility. 

For example, yoga and tai chi both involve slow, graceful movements. These activities can prevent your muscles from wasting and help you feel more sure on your feet. 

If you’re concerned about your balance, tell your DeyeNAMICS provider. They can develop a personalized neuro-optometric rehabilitation program to improve your vision and balance.

3. Wear Comfortable, Supportive Shoes

Certain shoes, like high heels and flip-flops, make you more likely to slip, stumble, and fall. Whereas comfortable, close-toed shoes with nonskid soles can help you feel more confident. Not only do supportive shoes help you feel more steady, but they can also help ease common musculoskeletal problems, like heel and joint pain.

4. Test your Vision Annually

Vision problems, like blurred vision and trouble tracking objects, can affect your depth perception and ability to focus. Unfortunately, this also increases your likelihood of a stumble or fall. 

Neuro-visual processing problems can dramatically affect balance and gait. Neuro-optometric rehabilitation specifically addresses these issues through specialized lenses, visual exercises, and individual therapies. After a detailed eye exam and specialized testing, we can make personalized treatment recommendations to sharpen your vision and help you stay on your feet. 

5. Use Assistive Devices

Certain medical conditions, like Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injuries, can permanently affect your balance. In this case, you may benefit from an assistive device, like a cane, walker, or rollator. These devices provide extra stability and support by letting you evenly distribute your weight. They also make additional contact with the ground, increasing your support base and improving stability.

Worried About your Risk of Falls? We Can Help!

Certain neurodegenerative conditions can increase your risk of falls, but you don’t have to stay sidelined. To learn more about the treatment options available, contact your nearest DeyeNAMICS office today. Call or click the online booking feature to schedule your appointment.