November is Falls Prevention Month. Alberta Health Services encourages you to take steps to prevent falls and other injuries.
About 180 children ages four and under and 11,000 adults ages 65 and older were hospitalized due to falls in Alberta in 2022. Here are some tips to avoid falls:
For children:
- Use sturdy, wall-mounted gates at the top of all stairs and a wall-mounted or pressure-mounted gate at the bottom.
- Install safety devices on windows, such as window guards or child-proof locks higher than ground level. Safety devices should be installed, so they may be opened by an adult or older child without the use of any tools or special knowledge.
- Move furniture away from windows and balcony rails to prevent children from climbing.
- Secure furniture, such as dressers and bookcases, to the wall.
- Always have your child wear a certified helmet while skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tobogganing or skating to lower the risk of head injuries.
For adults:
- Move your body. Regular physical activity builds balance, strength and flexibility. Talk to your healthcare provider before beginning a new physical activity, and discuss strategies for staying active if you have limited mobility.
- Choose footwear that has low heels, fits well and has good grip. Take short, slow steps on slippery surfaces.
- Check your vision. Changes to your vision might increase your risk of falling. Alberta Health covers the cost of an annual eye exam for adults ages 65 and older.
- Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist and ask questions about side effects, such as feeling dizzy or sleepy.
- Keep floors and pathways clutter-free and turn on lights on stairs.
If you fall or are seriously injured, get the appropriate care promptly. People with life-threatening emergencies should visit their nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1. If your condition is not life-threatening, call Health Link at 8-1-1 for health advice or information.
