Falls Prevention at Any Age

Posted by: seattledizzygroup | September 30, 2019

Falls Prevention at Any Age

All Can Fall – Not Just Seniors!

Seniors are at a higher risk of falls, but anyone at any age can fall–especially, those living with chronic vestibular (inner ear/balance system) dysfunction.

Dizziness and imbalance are common symptoms for older adults and about 1/3 of people over age 65 fall annually. However, falls are NOT a normal part of aging and are preventable!

The first week of Fall each year is Falls Prevention Awareness Week with the goal of raising awareness about how to prevent falls among older adults:

www.stopfalls.org/news-events/fall-prevention-awareness-week

As a part of Balance Awareness Week (September 15-21, 2019), the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) launched an “All Can Fall” online campaign to help raise awareness about falls.

Being aware of yourself and your surroundings can help prevent falls. (Remember, the acronym I DO NOT FALL).

It is also important to be prepared to land as safely as possible when a fall happens. (Try to stay bent, protect your head, fall on your buttocks or thighs, and roll with the fall rather than bracing yourself).

If you are feeling unsteady, Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy can help you regain balance and decrease your risk of a fall!

More information:

www.vestibular.org/baw

www.vestibular.org/allcanfall

www.vestibular.org/seniors