Getting older comes with so many privileges and wonderful life experiences, but it also comes with its challenges. You may not be as agile as you used to be, and maybe you are a bit unsteady on your feet at times.

While kids and even younger adults can trip or slip while at home and probably will get up without much thought, it can be harder to get off the floor when you are older. In some cases, simple trips can lead to serious injuries.

Our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland team explains some easy ways to avoid falling at home and while you are out and about, so check it out below.

How Can I Improve My Balance?

Slips and trips are often caused by losing your sense of balance or becoming unsteady after turning around too quickly. The best way to support your balance is to exercise! Regular exercise helps support stronger muscles that you can rely on to help you stay on your feet. Even low-impact exercises like walking, tai chi and water aerobics classes help you get stronger.

You should also only wear sensible and reliable shoes while you are at home or out on the town. We tend to move slower as we age, so having sturdy shoes that will support you is vital. Sandals or slides can easily catch the edges of rugs or become tangled under your feet. Find a reliable pair of tennis shoes or something similar that you trust.

Home Care Tips

• Have any broken or twisted exterior steps fixed quickly.
• Keep your lawn tidy and roll up your hoses after every use.
• Turn your porch light on before leaving in the evening.
• Don’t travel when it is icy, or walk slowly and cautiously if you must.

What Steps Can I Take to Avoid Falls Inside?

A big factor when it comes to falling at home is clutter. Keeping a tidy home and reducing unnecessary clutter in each room is key to staying on your feet! Put shoes, books, boxes and newspapers away after you are done using them. Secure rugs to the ground with tape or sticky mats and clean up any spills right away to avoid slipping.

You should also keep your home well-lit. Darkness can easily conceal the edges of counters or something on the ground that you weren’t expecting. Don’t forget about your bedroom! Having a bedside lamp is important for those overnight bathroom runs so they can light your way.

Additional Tips to Avoid Falling

• Use handrails when walking down steps.
• Install non-slip treads for your bathroom tub or shower.
• Invest in a raised toilet seat or grab bars.
• Move slowly and always be aware of your surroundings.

Did a recent fall leave you hurt? Come see us right away at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland.