Autumn Years Fall 2024

HEALTH & WELFARE

Fall Proofing Preventing Falls Inside and Outside the Home By Dan Gallagher

A ccording to the World Health deaths worldwide, a finding that aligns with a 2024 report issued by the Centers for Disease and Prevention that identifies falls as a leading cause of death in the United States. And in both cases, falling disproportionately impacts adults age 65 and older. Even if a fall does not result in a serious injury, it can create a fear of falling again, which can lead to a decreased quality of life and a loss of independence. Not surprisingly, most falls occur in the home—which means there are many pre Organization, falls are the second leading cause of accidental injury INSIDE THE HOME No matter your age, it is important to fall proof your surroundings so you—and your family and friends—can cruise around comfortably at home. • Secure rugs and floor coverings with rubber backing or double sided tape; use mats or rugs to improve slick surfaces. • Be sure all railings and banisters are secure, and install extra guard rails (includ ing bed rails or bathroom grab bars) if necessary. • Make sure there is ad equate lighting throughout your home. Use motion sensi tive lights or night lights in any areas you may walk through when it is dark. ventive measures you can take to minimize your risk. Here are some suggestions to help keep you and your family safe without having to remodel your entire home or alter how you use its space.

stronger and give you more control of your movements. There are also a variety of exercise programs specially geared towards adults who are concerned about falling and other risks associated with aging. • Manage your medication. Some medi cations can impair your balance, awareness and ability to respond to unsafe conditions. Be sure to take all medications exactly as prescribed, and talk to your doctor if you are concerned about side effects. • Visit your physician. The more aware and alert you are, the less likely it is you will be injured by a fall. The National Council on Aging recommends having your vision and hearing checked regularly, so that you can more easily recognize and better respond to any safety hazards. USE SAFE PRACTICES • Always turn the lights on when negotiating difficult areas. • Never stand on furniture or unsteady surfaces. Keep a reach extender (or grabber stick) on hand to help extend your range when grabbing objects from cabinets or high shelves. • Use handrails, walls or sturdy furniture to steady yourself as you walk. • To prevent tripping, wear good shoes and appropriate clothing both around the house and outdoors. Dan Gallagher is the owner of Gallagher and Associates Insurance Agency, Inc., in Hawthorne, NJ. He helps clients select auto and home insurance plans that meet their personal insurance needs and helps business owners choose commercial coverage for business property and liability.

• Arrange your furniture so that it is easy to get around. Be sure nothing is obstructing any doors or natural pathways. • Fix anything in your home that may create a safety hazard, like a broken stair, unruly electrical cords or a wobbly table. • Keep your home neat and clean, and doors and stairways free of clutter. • At night, put a fully-charged cell phone near your bed. OUTSIDE THE HOME Weather can create some of the most hazardous conditions for falls around the home. Here are some easy fixes: • Install good quality lighting that is easy to turn on when you need it. • Make sure all stairs and ramps have handrails and good traction. • When you leave your house during the day and do not plan to return until after sundown, turn on the outdoor lights you normally use at night to ensure you are not navigating in the dark when you return. STAY HEALTHY Taking steps to improve your physical health can minimize your chances of fall ing. It can also minimize the chances of getting injured during a fall. Here are a few things you can do: • Get active. Walking, yoga, Tai Chi or any regular physical exercise can make you • Regularly clear your sidewalks, entrances, stairs and driveway of snow, ice and other outdoor debris. Use an ice melt product to make them less slippery. • Use salt on icy walkways.

18 AUTUMN YEARS I FALL 2024