The Importance of Fall Prevention

Safe Independence at Home

​Every year, more than one in four adults aged 65 and older experiences a fall. To some, falls may seem like minor accidents, but for older adults the effects can last a lifetime. In fact, falls are one of the leading causes of injury and mortality among older adults, affecting their independence and ability to age in place.

The good news is that many falls can be prevented with a few simple lifestyle changes.

Here are some easy ways to reduce the risk of falling:

• Stay active with regular training, like walking, resistance training, yoga, or tai chi, to improve balance and muscle strength. Be sure to consult your physician or physical therapist to make sure you choose an exercise routine that's right for you.
• Schedule annual vision and hearing exams to help you stay aware of your surroundings.
• Make your home safer by removing loose rugs and clutter, improving lighting, and having grab bars professionally installed where needed. VNA's therapy team can help make recommendations for home safety.
• Wear supportive, non-slip shoes instead of slippers, socks, or backless footwear.
• Stand up slowly after sitting or lying down to avoid dizziness.
• Tell your doctor if you've fallen, even if you weren't injured. A fall may be a sign of an underlying health issue that can often be treated, and those taking blood thinners may have injuries that are not apparent.

​At the Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey, we're dedicated to helping older adults remain safe, healthy, and independent at home. By taking a few preventive steps today, you can reduce your risk of falls and continue enjoying the activities you love. Visit our website or call us today to learn more.

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​Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence.

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Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency.

​Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.

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© All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.

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