Fall Prevention

Remaining Independent in Your Home

Falls are the main reason older people lose their independence and they often happen at home. Many falls can easily be prevented. Here are four things that you can do to stay active, independent and decrease your chance of having a fall.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise improves strength, coordination, balance, and self-confidence.

• Take free classes at the Loudon County Senior Center.
• Take classes offered by TV recreation department (requires membership).
• Use the free walking circuit around the Wellness Center.
• Join Walk-and-Talk.  Check Tell-Events for weekly schedule.
• Ask your healthcare provider if you could benefit from physical therapy – cost should be covered by Medicare.

Regular Check-Ups

• Medication Review – Some medications can cause dizziness and other side effects that may affect your balance. Discuss any new medication or combinations of medication with your physician or pharmacist.
• Vision Screening – Medicare covers comprehensive eye exams if you have diabetes, cataracts, macular degeneration, or are at high risk for glaucoma; routine eye exams and glasses are not covered by original Medicare.
• Hearing and Balance Exam – Medicare covers if your healthcare provider orders them; hearing aids and fittings are not covered by original Medicare.

Home Safety

Remove clutter and throw rugs, add grab bars in bathroom, install good lighting, wear proper footwear, and never climb up or on anything.

• Call STAYinTV Home Maintenance Program at 458-7084 to arrange for simple home maintenance you can no longer manage.
• Have a local certified home modification provider or licensed contractor install ramps, grab bars, and do other repairs or modifications – both Home Depot and Lowe’s have a range of products to make homes safer and more accessible and licensed installers to make the changes.

Fall Prevention Classes

TV University, local churches, Loudon senior center, and some healthcare providers offer free classes and programs.