Tips to Keep Veterans From Falling Down

Tips to keep Veterans from falling down: Health problems, changes in your vision, walking, and balance are some of the reasons you may be more likely to fall. Certain kinds of medication may increase your risk of falls.Health problems like low blood sugar, high or low blood pressure, muscle weakness, low endurance and joint pain can be managed but don’t go away! Get your eyes checked once a year at least. You may have the wrong glasses, or a condition like glaucoma or cataract that limits your vision. Get your hearing checked every 2 years- your inner ear problem may affect your balance. Remove things you may trip over- papers, books, shoes, clothes- from stairs especially.Remove small throw rugs or use double sided tape to keep rugs from slipping. Keep items in cabinets where you don’t need to use a step stool. Have grab bars put in next to your toilet and in the tub and shower. Use non-slip mats in bathtub and shower. Improve the lighting in your home.. reduce glare with curtains.Night lights or motion sensor lights can help. Have handrails and lights put on all staircases.Wear shoes inside and outside the house. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers. Consider padding sharp edges of furniture to prevent fall-related injuries.Eat breakfast and drink plenty of water .If you don’t get enough to eat and drink, you may become dizzy and fall. Be sure to call your doctor if you fall and are hurt., and if you have any of these concerns: worrying about falling; feeling light-headed or dizzy more than once a day;falling suddenly without getting dizzy; losing your balance; taking blood thinners; feeling numbnss in your legs or feet, or noticing a change in the way you walk.Stay well ! Dr. Bob Helton, Flight Surgeon