How To Prevent Falls In Aging

Falls become more common with age, but they should never be dismissed as “just getting older.” In this episode, geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH, explains why older adults fall and the best ways to prevent falls.

You’ll learn the most common causes of falling in later life and how geriatricians evaluate falls. Dr. Kernisan also explains the prevention approaches she uses the most, including physical therapy, strength and balance exercises for fall prevention, medication review, and home safety changes.

If you’ve had a recent fall, feel unsteady, or worry about falling, this video will help you better understand what to discuss with your health provider and what practical steps can reduce risk.

Related resources:
CDC STEADI Stay Independent Brochure:
https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/pdf/STEADI-Brochure-StayIndependent-508.pdf

Videos Illustrating Otago Exercises for Fall Prevention
https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/otago-exercises-fall-prevention-videos/

Sign up for Better Health While Aging’s newsletter to receive practical health advice from board-certified geriatrician Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH:
https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/for-older-adults/

#FallPrevention #HealthyAging #OlderAdults #BalanceTraining #PhysicalTherapy #Geriatrics #BetterHealthWhileAging

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
02:32 Why do older adults fall?
06:00 Common causes and risk factors for falls
09:15 Why medical evaluation matters
13:55 What a fall evaluation should include
19:09 Top ways to prevent falls
22:38 Do canes and walkers help?
24:30 Dr. K’s approach to fall prevention
28:05 What to do if you’re concerned


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Disclaimer
The material on the Better Health While Aging Youtube channel, including any exchanges in the comments section, is for informational and educational purposes only. Any comments Dr. Kernisan may make regarding an individual’s story or comments should not be construed as establishing a physician-patient relationship between Dr. Kernisan and a caregiver, or care recipient. None of Dr. Kernisan’s website, social media, comments, or group information should be considered a substitute for individualized medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment. Please see the full disclaimer for more information: https://betterhealthwhileaging.net/disclaimer/