Falls are a leading cause of emergency department visits related to injury in the Thunder Bay District. Preventing falls is critically important, especially as our population ages. An estimated 1 in 3 people in Canada over the age of 65 experience a fall every year. This can have a long lasting impact because of injury, chronic pain and reduced quality of life. Even if a fall doesn't cause an injury, it can lead to an older adult losing confidence to participate in the activities they enjoy.
While some falls can't be avoided, most can be prevented!
Tips to Prevent Falls
- Stay active to maintain good balance and build strength. See the TBDHU Benefits of Walking page for how walking helps maintain good health.
- Get enough sleep.
- Take your time when waking up and don’t rush when walking or getting up.
- Eat well and stay hydrated.
- Have your sight and hearing checked regularly.
- Manage medications and review them regularly with a pharmacist or doctor as some may make you prone to dizziness and falling.
- Wear sturdy shoes that fit well.
- Use a cane or other mobility device if needed.
- Wear eyeglasses and hearing aids if needed.
- Improve home safety:
- Have proper lighting in hallways, stairs, walkways, in the bedroom and bathroom.
- Have easy access to a lamp from bed.
- Keep indoor stairs free of clutter.
- Keep exterior stairs and walkways free of clutter, ice or snow.
- Install hand rails along stairs and safety grab bars in the bathroom.
- Check your home for slipping and tripping hazards, and use non-slip mats or rugs.
- Keep extension cords in good condition and out of travel paths.
- Use a rubber bath mat in the bathtub.
- Keep items that are used regularly within easy reach.
For more information about preventing falls, check out Parachute Canada's Caregiver's Guide to Fall Prevention.
It is helpful to know what to do if you have a fall and to practice getting up. Review the helpful tips on What to do if you have a fall.
Resource Guide for Aging Adults in Thunder Bay
Age-Friendly Thunder Bay, in partnership with Lakehead Social Planning Council’s 211 program, offers an online, easy to navigate, user-friendly “Resource Guide for Aging Adults in Thunder Bay”. Programs and services listed on the portal are converted from the 211 Northern Region database of Human Services. The information provided is regularly reviewed, verified and updated by 211 Resource staff using www.211north.ca. Access the portal by clicking the button below:
Access Resource Guide for Aging Adults in Thunder Bay
For Further Information
Call the Injury Prevention Program: (807) 625-5900 or toll-free 1-888-294-6630