Lifestyle Management

Falling is not a normal part of aging.

Many people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is they are not. Most falls can be prevented--and you have the power to reduce your risk of falling.

Exercising, managing medications, yearly hearing and vision checkup, and making your living environment safer are all steps to help prevent a fall.

Physical Activity

The most effective way to prevent falls is to be physically active. Performing strength and balance exercises at least three times per week will reduce the chances of falling.

 

Improving strength and balance can help protect from a fall.


Some people may feel that if they limit their activity, it will reduce their chances of falling but this will actually increase the risk of falling because the muscles become weaker, which helps maintain balance and stability. 


Montana Falls Prevention Program

The Montana Falls Prevention Program supports three falls prevention programs, Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL), Stepping On, and Tai Chi for Arthritis & Falls Prevention. All three programs include exercises.

Home Exercises

Talk to Your Doctor

At your annual wellness visit, ask your doctor to evaluate your risk for falling and talk with them about specific things you can do.

Talk to your doctor about falls--6 tips for helpful conversation. 

Some risk factors for falling include:

Medication Management

Have your doctor and/or pharmacist review all the medication you take annually, this include prescription medicine, over-the-counter medicine, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

 As we age, we are more likely to experience medication side effects. Some medicines or combinations of medicines can make you feel drowsy, dizzy, or light-headed. These may cause you to lose your balance or feel unsteady on your feet.

Resources for Medication Management

 

*If you have unwanted or expired prescription medications, you can bring them to a prescription dropbox.

Hearing and Vision Checked

Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.

Have your hearing and vision checked every year.

Hearing

Vision

  • Invest or upgrade eyeglass prescription as needed
    • If you have bifocal or progressive lenses, you may want to get a pair of glasses with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking. Sometimes these types of lenses can make things seem closer or farther away than they really are.
    • Montana Blind and Low Vision Services
    • Montana Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation
      • Provide financial assistance
    • MonTech  
      • Try out hearing assistive technology devices and equipment for free

Home Safety

Over half of the falls happen at home. Making simple changes around your home can decrease your risk of falling.

  • Remove tripping hazards such as papers, books, clothes, and shoes
  • Tape or tack down or remove rugs
  • Replace dim or non-functioning light bulbs
  • Put handrails on all stairs and steps
  • Install grab bars next to your toilet and in the tub or shower
  • Click for more home safety and modification tips

Home Safety Resources