Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors

The California Department of Aging offers fall prevention tips through their Dignity at Home Fall Prevention Program. "The mission of the Dignity At Home Fall Prevention Program is to reduce the number of debilitating falls suffered by older adults and persons with disabilities."

Preventing Falls in Older Adults

1 in 4 older adults experience a fall each year, and nearly 1 in 5 of those falls lead to serious injury such as broken bones or head trauma. Beyond the personal impact, fall-related medical costs exceed $50 billion annually. The good news? Many falls are preventable.

Common Risk Factors to Falling

• Lower body weakness

• Poor vision

• Side effects from medications

• Foot pain

• Environmental hazards (like loose rugs or poor lighting)

Services Available

Through the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or contracted providers, older adults and individuals with disabilities may receive:

• Fall prevention education and resources

• Referrals to injury-prevention programs

• In-home safety assessments

• Home modifications to reduce risks

• Training on safe behaviors and physical activity

• Assistance with equipment or materials to prevent falls

  
  

Who Qualifies?

To receive services, participants must:

• Be 60+ years old or an individual with a disability

• Have a household income at or below 80% of the area median income

• Have fallen, be at risk of falling, or be at risk of institutionalization

For more information about preventing falls in elderly seniors, please visit their website.