Fall Prevention with Brio Living Services
As we welcome the changing colors of the leaves and the cooler temperatures of Fall, it’s also a good time to think about ways we can prevent falls, especially among older adults. In fact, September is Fall Prevention Month! Falls are one of the most significant health risks for older adults, and their impact can be life-changing. At Brio Living Services, we see firsthand how important it is to raise awareness about falls and to empower older adults with tools and strategies to prevent them.
One in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury among older adults and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions. About a quarter of falls result in moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, fractures, or head trauma.
The causes of falls are not always easy to identify. In fact, there are often many factors. Some stem from the environment, such as poor lighting or clutter. Others are tied to intrinsic, person-related issues like muscle weakness or dizziness. Still others are linked to behavioral choices, such as rushing or not using a walker or cane correctly. Because many older adults have more than one of these risks, it can be difficult to pinpoint a single cause. What is clear, however, is that spotting risks early makes prevention far more effective.
Two of the most significant risk factors are muscle weakness and problems with gait and balance. While many assume these are an inevitable part of aging, most muscle weakness is actually linked to a lack of activity or disease, not age itself. The encouraging news? Exercise can improve strength and balance for everyone.
A well-rounded program is best, combining:
- Strength training: squats, chair push-ups, stair climbing
- Endurance activities: walking, swimming, NuStep, or stationary bike
- Flexibility exercises: gentle stretches and rotations
- Balance practice: heel-to-toe walking, standing on one leg, dancing, or Tai Chi
Moving regularly—ideally five times per week—can make a tremendous difference in reducing fall risks.
Beyond exercise, other important steps include:
- Talking with your doctor or pharmacist about medications and side effects
- Reporting any falls or mobility changes right away
- Keeping up with regular vision care
- Making small home safety upgrades, such as better lighting and removing clutter
- Using mobility aids properly and confidently
Just as importantly, staying active both physically and mentally helps reduce the fear of falling and supports independence.
Tylene Liken, Director of Lifestyle and Health at Chelsea Retirement Community, is hosting an empowerment workshop for residents on September 25, part of Brio’s Balanced Living program that promotes the Eight Dimensions of Wellness for older adults. At this empowerment workshop, small groups of residents will practice getting on and off the floor. “The objective of the program is to promote self-assessment, develop skills, address fear of falling, facilitate home safety checks, and promote community resources,” Tylene explains.
During this workshop, Tricia Commet, Transitions Coordinator, will be a guest speaker and will share a presentation, “Fall-Proof Your Future,” which will focus on fall education, assistive technology, and more! This is just one way our communities empower our residents with tools to be able to prevent falls.
At Brio Living Services, we believe that falls can often be prevented with the right mix of awareness, activity, and support. By focusing on risk factors and embracing healthy habits, older adults can reduce their risk, protect their independence, and continue enjoying the connections and activities that matter most to them. To learn more about Brio Living Services, visit MyBrio.org.
