8 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Falling

Falling can be painful, but for many, the real pain is not the initial impact, but the resulting injuries such as broken hips and fractured wrists that require physiotherapy. The Arthritis Foundation highlights 8 steps you can take to prevent future slips and falls.

1. Don’t multitask while walking. Distractions such as texting while walking limits your ability to recognize when a possible fall is about to take place.
2. Exercise. Engaging in strengthening exercises and routines will improve your flexibility, coordination and balance. Proper balance with correct weight shifting will reduce your chances of falling.
3. Get your eyes tested. It is important to see where you are going and poor vision can hinder your ability to walk freely without obstacles.
4. Consider your medications. Many prescribed medications can cause excessive drowsiness or dizziness. Talk to your doctor about possible alternative medications that won’t interfere with everyday tasks that would increase your chances getting an injury. 
5. Make your home safer. Simple fixes around the house can make your home more accessible and safe. Clearing the floors and hallways, securing throw rugs and using shower mats are easy ways of avoiding unnecessary falls in your own home.
6. Choose comfortable footwear. Shoes such as high heels and flimsy flip flops hinder your ability to walk without altering your gait and balance. Choosing shoes with proper support and comfortable insoles
7. Keep an eye on your pet. A study done by the CDC found that pets lead to about 86,600 falls a year. Whether it’s a small cat or large dog, animals can be easily tripped over which throws you off your balance.
8. Reorganize. Keep items that are used on a regular basis within reach to avoid using step ladders or standing on chairs.