As we age, our chances of falling increase. After age 65, our chances are one in three. After age 75, falling becomes the number one cause of accidental death. The good news, though, is that most falls can be prevented.

Aging and falls
Problems with our hearing or sight can throw off our balance and coordination. Inactivity can affect muscle strength and joint flexibility, making walking difficult. Many medical conditions can affect your ability to get around. These include diabetes, glaucoma, osteoporosis, thyroid disease, hardened arteries and Alzheimer's. In addition, certain medications can cause you to become dizzy or lightheaded.

See your doctor
Let your doctor know if you are having trouble with your balance. Give him or her a list of the medications you take (along with their dosages), and details about when, where and how you have fallen - or come close to falling. Describe how you felt when this happened, including any dizziness, shortness of breath, numbness or joint pain.

Your doctor may recommend any of the following:

• An exercise program. Walking, aquatic exercise and Tai Chi are a few activities that can help improve balance, coordination, strength and flexibility.
• Physical therapy. A physical therapist can plan a program to help improve your balance, muscle strength and manner of walking. Electrical stimulation (which delivers a slight shock to muscles), massage or ultrasound can be helpful.
• Assistive devices. These include canes, walkers, crutches or anything else that would make walking easier.

Get your house in order
Most falls at home can be prevented with some simple changes. If you haven't already, make sure to do the following:

• Wear shoes that fit properly. Make sure they have nonskid soles.
• Move furniture and clutter out of heavily traveled areas.
• Use two-sided tape to secure loose rugs to the floor.
• Keep your home brightly lit.
• Install nightlights in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms.
• Put colored tape on top and bottom step of stairway to create contrast between levels.
• Install grab bars in tub and next to toilet.

Other considerations

• Get enough calcium and vitamin D. A lack of these nutrients can cause osteoporosis, which in turn can lead to brittle bones and fractures.
• Stay physically active. Inactivity decreases strength, muscle tone, bone mass and flexibility. This contributes to falls and makes injuries more severe.
• Reach and bend properly. Also take time to regain your balance when you rise from a chair. If you do fall, learn to do it properly. Try to land on your backside or hands.

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