(lively music) - Falling is not a part of normal aging.

My name is Dr. Sands.

I'm the medical director for Nashville Healthcare Center at Bordeaux.

On For Your Good Health today, I have tips on how to prevent falls.

(pensive music) There are lots of things that contribute to falls, including failing eyesight, not being aware of your surroundings, low vitamin D, which weakens your bones, weakness in the lower extremity, balance issues, sight issues, poor foot health or fitting shoes, poorly fitting shoes and then certain medications can contribute to low blood pressure or dizziness.

That can make you fall as well.

There can be traps in the home, such as rugs, loose carpeting, uneven stairs, inadequate railings, things like that.

(pensive music) There are some things you can do.

You can have your vision checked and make sure that your vision is adequate.

You could use lower body exercises to strengthen your lower body.

You could talk to your doctor about your risks for falling.

You could declutter your home.

You could remove loose rugs.

You could have add-on hand railings or grips.

You could make sure that you have adequate footing.

You can make sure that your feet are healthy and not painful so that you're not limping.

That can increase your falls and just be familiar with your surroundings.

Falling with the elderly is very important because a lot of times they don't like to discuss it because it threatens their independence, their ability to live alone or live independently.

But also, it can cause complications.

It can cause fractures.

It can reduce your mobility and your ability to continue with your normal everyday functions.

(pensive music) Falling is not a part of normal aging.

You are more prone to fall but it's because of the environment.

It's because of your unfamiliarity with your surroundings and not paying attention or taking precautions.

And then your provider and also specialist can do a full fall assessment.

But the biggest predictor of a fall is a previous fall, so it's really important to prevent that first fall.

Don't hesitate to tell your doctor if you've fallen or at risk or concerned about falling.

It's important to talk about it.