Top Tips to Prevent Falls at Home and in the Workplace

Emma Harrington

By Emma Harrington, director of injury prevention and education at Shepherd Center

Falls are one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, no matter how old you are. A common misconception is that falls are a normal part of the aging process, but there are things you can proactively do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Follow these simple steps to reduce the risk of falling.

Top Tips to Prevent Falls at Home and in the Workplace

1. Stay healthy and active. Keep up with annual eye exams, hearing exams, and physicals, which can alert you and your doctor to problems that might make you more prone to falls. Help maintain muscle tone and core body strength by staying active.
2. Be your own advocate. Talk with your doctor if you’ve had a fall or think you are at risk of falling as he or she can provide resources. Always be extra careful when drinking alcohol and be honest about your consumption, especially if falls are occurring under the influence.
3. Review your medications. Talk with your healthcare team about the list of medications – prescription and over-the-counter – that you take. Sometimes certain medications or combinations of medications can leave you feeling off-balance.
4. Wear suitable shoes. Make sure they fit well. Ideally, shoes should have non-skid soles. Avoid flip-flops altogether and slippers where the grip has deteriorated.
5. Think twice before climbing that ladder or chair. If you must get on a ladder, please have someone else present to spot you and ensure the ladder is adequately secured. If using a step ladder at work, make sure it has sturdy grips and is locked in place before reaching up. Climbing on chairs, especially ones with wheels, is a recipe for disaster.
6. Preemptively make modifications to your home. Remove any loose rugs or cords, keep pathways clear, ditch clutter, use motion-activated night lights, and keep flashlights handy to help guide you in the dark. Non-slip mats and grab bars, if needed, can help make bathrooms safer.
7. Hire a professional. For outside jobs like cleaning the gutters or painting the house, it’s best to leave it to the experts. Spending the money to have the gutters cleaned is a lot less costly than a catastrophic injury.
8. Always wear a helmet. If you ride bikes, motorcycles, scooters, or horses, protect your head.
9. Accept assistance when you need it. If you feel unsteady or unsure, ask for help.