Falling. It’s enough to strike fear in anyone’s mind. Did you know that research studies have shown 1 in 4 people age 65+ falls each year? Twenty percent of falls cause a serious injury such as hip fractures or broken bones. Falls can result in loss of mobility, independence and quality of life. Caregivers can also be impacted, experiencing a significant increase in their workload, sometimes leading to depression.

Falls are preventable. Take the following measures to protect you or your loved ones:

1. Speak up. Talk openly with your health care provider about fall risks and prevention. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines every time you visit them.
2. Keep moving. Begin an exercise program to improve your leg strength and balance. Make a plan to help protect your mobility.
3. Get an annual eye exam. Replace eyeglasses as needed. 
4. Make your home safer. Remove clutter and tripping hazards such as loose scatter rugs.

UNMC Engage Wellness offers group movement classes such as Tai Chi, Strength, Yoga and Step. Each participant receives a fitness and balance assessment and an individualized fitness plan. Engage Wellness is Omaha’s only medical fitness and whole-person wellness program for adults affiliated with a leading academic health sciences center.  

Programs such as A Matter of Balance; Stepping On and Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance are evidence based falls prevention programs which can help in saving lives and saving money. Learn more about these and other proven programs.

Did you know that older adults who make a plan are more likely to take action to protect their mobility and independence? Go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about keeping your mobility.