Senior Falls Prevention

NNPH Falls Prevention Workshops

“Stepping On” is a fun, 7-week workshop that helps you stay steady and independent. Studies show it can reduce falls by 31%!

Here’s what you will learn:

• How to spot & avoid fall hazards at home & in your community
• How vision, medications, & footwear affect your balance
• Easy at-home exercises to build strength & improve balance
• How to get back up if fallen

Free upcoming Stepping On Falls Prevention Workshop in Reno!

Co-hosted by Renown Health and Northern Nevada Public Health

Date & Time: Mondays, June 1st – July 20th 9:30-11:30 AM (7 weekly 2-hour sessions)

Location: Renown Regional Medical Center (Sierra Classroom 102) 1155 Mill Street, Reno 89502 

To Register: Space is limited, register now! Learn more

Questions?: Call 775-982-7787 or 775-328-6153

Unintentional falls

Unintentional falls represent the highest cause of reported injuries in both Washoe County and Nevada, and the leading cause of injury-related deaths for American seniors, age 65+ (CDC). The risk of dying from an unintentional fall dramatically increases with age. Most unintentional falls occur within the home residence.

Here are some simple steps you can do for yourself or your loved ones to help prevent falls:

1. Fall-proof your home: Make simple modifications to your home to prevent falls by:

• Removing all tripping hazards such as throw and area rugs. Keep all walkways clean and tidy.
• Installing assistive handrails, grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs. Use non-skid mats.
• Installing night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways. Light up your living spaces!
• Use this Home Safety Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults

2. Regularly review any over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, and prescription medications with your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Many medications and dietary supplements are a common cause of falls, or injury from falling.  Medications Linked to Falls

3. Do exercises regularly that improve your balance, strength, and mobility – such as Stepping On, Fit & Strong, and Tai Ji Quan.

4. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Alcohol diminishes balance, reflexes, and judgment that will increase your risk of falling, as well as causing other chronic health issues.
Other risk factors for falls include:

• Eyesight, hearing, and reflex problems
• Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or problems with your thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels
• Older adults with certain types of dementia are at higher risk of falling
• Age-related loss of muscle mass
• Foot problems that cause discomfort

Senior Falls Prevention Videos

Additional Resources

• Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention | National Institute on Aging
• Tips To Help Prevent Falls
• 10 common myths regarding older adults and falls