Pandemic poses another risk for older adults: falling

HOW TO PREVENT FALLS The good news: Falls are not a normal part of aging, the CDC says, and older adults can do a number of things to lower their risk of experiencing one. First and

foremost, stay physically active — whether indoors with online workouts or outside. “We've got pretty good data now that exercising outdoors is really quite safe” when it comes to

COVID-19, Colon-Emeric says. And be sure to focus on movements that strengthen the legs and improve balance, like tai chi. Poll director Preeti Malani, M.D., says that exercising is “even

better” if it “happens in conjunction with social interaction.” The Michigan report found that the percentage of older adults reporting falls was higher (32 percent) among those who lacked

companionship. Getting the vaccine if you haven't already can help make socializing safer. And “if it starts to be that you have to put a mask back on, don't let that stop you from

acknowledging that you can still go out and about and do things,” Brinckerhoff says, referring to the return of some restrictions as new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations surge in largely

unvaccinated communities. Limiting alcohol use, which has increased during the pandemic, can also lower the likelihood of falls. And older adults can ask their doctor or pharmacist to

review the medications they take, both over-the-counter and prescription, and limit those that cause dizziness or sleepiness. In 2017, 94 percent of adults 65 and older took medicine that

increased their risk of falling, up from 57 percent in 1999, a 2020 study found. If you've noticed a decline in your vision, it may be time for an eye appointment. The CDC recommends

getting your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year to help prevent falls. And wearing a pair of thin-soled shoes can be helpful for adults with neuropathy. Small adjustments

also can make your home environment safer. For example, opt for short-pile carpet and install railings on both sides of stairways. Add a lamp or two to brighten dimly lit rooms, and

rearrange furniture as needed so you can get around easily. It's possible that the trends highlighted in this latest fall research could reverse, Hoffman says, “but to the extent that

we neglect to heed the warning signs and the pandemic continues on and on, I think we will see increases in these risks that are really worrisome.” He adds, “It may not be super obvious to

the naked eye, but helping people get out, get around and spend more time on [their] feet on a daily basis” can help. 10 WAYS TO REDUCE FALL RISKS A few simple home changes can keep you

safer on your feet * Install carpet with short, dense pile. * Secure rugs with double-sided carpet tape. * Reposition electrical and extension cords out of the way. * Use nightlights. *

Remove rugs at the top or bottom of stairways. * Do away with floor wax. * Use rubber bathmats or strips in bathtubs and showers. * Install at least two grab bars in the shower/bath. * Keep

exits and hallways open. * Repair broken or uneven pavement on walkways and driveways. AARP has a full checklist that can help older adults prevent falls here.  _Source: AARP_ _Rachel Nania

writes about health care and health policy for AARP. Previously she was a reporter and editor for WTOP Radio in Washington, D.C. A recipient of a Gracie Award and a regional Edward R. Murrow

Award, she also participated in a dementia fellowship with the National Press Foundation._