If you live in a part of the country where season is changing to ice and snow, I am sure your are worried about that icy accident where you could fracture your hip. Just remember to be careful and do not take chances on icy and/or wet surfaces.  A simple fall can have a dramatic impact on your life.

But remember that falls happen everyday, even on beautiful days.  As you age, your sight, hearing, muscle strength, coordination and reflexes begin to change. You may notice that your balance may be off or that you lose mobility.  If you have diabetes or heart disease, your balance can be affected and some of the medications that you are taking can cause dizziness. Then there is Osteoporosis, where your bones become thin and break easily.  All of these things can contribute to your first fall- creating that change in your life that affects your overall well-being.  So how do you take care of yourself to remain active and maintain your quality of life?  Here are a few simple tips:  

Ø      Contact your doctor and ask him about Osteoporosis and a bone density test that will tell you how strong your bones really are or if you need medications to help strengthen your bones.  

Ø      Plan an exercise program that is right for you. Always talk with your doctor before beginning your exercise program  

Ø      Review your medications with your pharmacist and/or physician for any side effects. 

 Ø      Stand up slowly – this will prevent you from feeling faint if your blood pressure drops too quickly  

Ø      Wear shoes and socks (low-heeled shoes that fully support your feet).  

Ø      If you have handrails in your home, make sure they are safe and use them.  

Ø      Pick up your throw rugs.  

Ø      Don’t take chances.  

Ø      Make your home safe by making sure you have good lighting and keeping areas tidy.  

Ø      In your bedroom, put your telephone next to your bed.  

Ø      Keep night lights on.   

Some additional fall prevention resources are:  

Ø      The Older Consumers Safety Checklist is free by contacting the U.S. Consumer Product Safety commission at www.cpsc.gov  

Ø      National Institute on Aging provides Age Pages on osteoporosis, home safety and fall  prevention tips at www.nia.nih.gov