A panel of British and American researchers published a new set of guidelines for fall prevention last week. The new guidelines urge seniors to engage in exercise that improves balance and strength, such as Tai Chi and to reduce medications, especially those that affect the brain.
The panel also suggests that falls are under reported, and as many as one-third of Americans 65 or older fall each year. Health care providers should be proactive about asking seniors if they have recently fallen, or if they feel unsteady when walking.
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For more information on how to limit your risk of falls we’ve included a few links for you below:
- Minnesota Safety Council: Fall Prevention Checklist.
- Mayo Clinic: Fall prevention: 6 tips to prevent falls.
- Centers for Disease Control: Brochures and Posters.
- For Providers: Centers for Disease Control: How to Develop Community-based Fall Prevention Programs for Older Adults (pdf).
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