Protect Yourself from Falls
Rose Traub • June 3, 2019
Did you know falls are the leading cause of death for people 55 and older? According to the Center for Disease Control, almost 3,000 adults over the age of 55 died from falls in 2017.
Here are the facts:
- One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury .
- Each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
- Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.
- Each year at least 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
What Causes Falls?
- Weakness
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Difficulties with walking and balance
- Medications, tranquilizers, sedatives, or antidepressants. Even some over-the-counter medicines can affect balance.
- Vision problems
- Foot pain or poor footwear
- Home hazards
Most falls are caused by a combination of factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances of falling.
Preventing Falls
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines to see if any might make you dizzy. Include all your medications including prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.
- Ask your doctor about taking vitamin D supplements.
- Do yoga or strength and balance exercises.
- Have Your Eyes Checked
- Do a Home Safety Check including getting rid of things that can be tripped over. Add assistance bars in your bathroom. Be sure you have railings on your stairs.
With some careful preparation and precautions, you do not need to be the victim of a fall.
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As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t just a holiday tradition — it’s a way of life. At Assisted Senior Services, we see it daily: in the quiet strength of caregivers, the wisdom of our seniors, and the small moments that make a big difference. We believe gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a practice. A way of seeing the world, even in challenging times. For seniors, caregivers, and families, this season can stir a mix of emotions. There may be joy in gathering, but also grief, fatigue, or change. That’s why we hold space for all of it — and honor the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up with love. Gratitude doesn’t erase hardship, but it helps us carry it. It reminds us that even in uncertainty, there are still ordinary gifts: a warm hand to hold, a shared laugh, a moment of peace. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, navigating new challenges, or simply pausing to reflect, this season invites us to slow down and appreciate the ordinary gifts around us — a warm smile, a shared story, a helping hand. We are grateful for: • The families who trust us to walk alongside them, through transitions and triumphs. • The caregivers who show up with compassion and grace. • The caregivers who offer comfort, dignity, and patience every single day. • The seniors who teach us resilience, humor, and the value of every day – reminding us of what really matters. This Thanksgiving, we honor your journey. We celebrate your courage. And we’re here to support you — not just during the holidays, but all year long. So, whether your Thanksgiving is bustling or quiet, traditional or tender, we hope you find something to hold onto — and someone to hold it with. From all of us at Assisted Senior Services, thank you for being part of our community. We’re honored to support you, and we wish you a season filled with warmth, connection, and care. Happy Thanksgiving!