Our colleagues at Injury Matters are committed to helping older people stay safe. As we age, our bodies change and visual perception can change. These changes can contribute to the greater risk of having a fall. Read more about some common misconceptions about falls and how to improve your knowledge and reduce the risk.
Falls can happen to anyone, but the risk increases with age. The good news is that falls are preventable. Let’s bust some common myths and increase your confidence in staying active and independent.
Myth 1: ‘My home is fine, I’ve lived here for years without falling.’
Busted: Our needs change as we age. Hazards can be found inside and outside of your home. When these hazards combine with other factors such as poor vision, weak bones, unsafe footwear or medication side effects, the risk of having a fall increases.
- Check your home regularly for hazards and remove them.
- Secure mats, improve lighting, and install grab rails in key areas like the bathroom and stairs.
- Always remember to put your gardening tools away safely.
Myth 2: ‘I can see well enough, I don’t need an eye test.’
Busted: Vision changes often happen gradually, and you may not notice them. Changes to your eyesight may include clouded vision, sensitivity to light, difficulty with vision at night, and dry or watery eyes. Poor vision affects your ability to spot hazards and obstacles around you.
- Have your eyes tested every two years, or every year if recommended.
- If you notice any changes to your vision, see a GP or Optometrist for a check-up.
- Keep your glasses prescription up to date and wear them as advised, taking time to adjust to new lenses.
Common signs to get your eyes checked
Myth 3: ‘Foot pain is normal at my age, I just live with it.’
Busted: Foot pain is common but not normal. It’s often a sign of a treatable condition like arthritis, bunions, or poor circulation, it can affect your balance and the way you walk.
- Take care of your feet daily.
- Check for any changes such as swelling, redness, or numbness.
- See a podiatrist if you notice any changes, have pain, numbness, or difficulty walking.
Myth 4: ‘All shoes are fine if they’re comfortable.’
Busted: Comfort isn’t the only factor, shoes also need support, fit, and grip.
- Wear supportive shoes with firm soles, a wide toe box, a low heel, and good tread, even inside the house.
- The shape of our feet changes with age, have your feet measured when you buy new shoes.
Myth 5: ‘I’ll see any hazard before I trip on it.’
Busted: Poor lighting, vision changes, and clutter can make it harder to spot hazards.
- Improve lighting inside and outside the home, including walkways and near stairs.
- Use night lights and keep important items and within easy reach such as phones, walking aids, medication and glasses close by.
- Consider installing sensor lighting inside and outside the home.
The ‘Stay On Your Feet® Remove Hazards’ online learning module focuses on simple ways to stay active and independent, such as making a home safer to prevent falls and move confidently. Learn more by trying out this online learning module: https://www.injurymatters.org.au/programs/stay-on-your-feet/information-for-over-60s/learn-more-about-falls/online-learning/
(Article: Thanks to Injury Matters https://www.injurymatters.org.au/stay-on-your-feet/myth-busters-debunking-common-falls-myths/ )
