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AS ADULTS AGE, THEIR RISK OF FALLING MAY INCREASE. FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO REDUCE THE DANGER. Over the years, adults may develop conditions that compromise balance, vision or muscle strength, making it dicult to nd a steady stance or walk without tripping. As a result, many older adults may fall and endure a variety of injuries, including lower extremity fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, these falls may decrease condence and participation in the activities of each day. "A fall can have a substantial impact on your life, and not just by causing a signicant injury," says Colette Di Leonardo, Manager of Inpatient Rehabilitation Services. "Aer a fall, many individuals become fearful of future falls and therefore limit their activity and/or socialization." REDUCE YOUR RISK Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors for falling, which may include: » arthritis » being on multiple medications » blurred vision » depression » diculty concentrating » history of falling » weakness in the muscles "e more factors that an individual has, the greater the risk," Di Leonardo says. "ese may include seemingly non-related challenges, such as incontinence, which causes individuals to rush to the restroom, or nocturia, which is characterized by making several trips to the bathroom each night." Once these risks are identied, your healthcare provider may recommend making certain changes to your home to make the space safer or daily exercises to improve balance and strength. "e sta of the Outpatient Rehab Department located inside the WHS WilfredR. Cameron Wellness Center is very knowledgeable and well-equipped to provide solutions," DiLeonardo says. "Medical attention is critical to managing risk and promoting safety." » TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE REHABILITATION SERVICES OFFERED AT WHS, VISIT WHS.ORG OR CALL (724) 250-6280. FALL PREVENTION in the Golden Years TOP TIPS TO FALL- PROOF YOUR HOME To improve the safety of your space, follow the steps listed below. 1 Keep the stairs free of clutter. 2 Place night lights in bathrooms, bedrooms and hallways. 3 Reduce the slippery conditions of your bathtub or shower with non-skid strips. 4 Make sure electrical cords are around the edges of a room and taped down. connections | W I NTE R 2017 14 whs.org