Risk of Falling

There may be things around your home that might increase your risk of falling. You may not think about some of these as being a cause: • poorly lit rooms or walkways • pets that walk in front of you • slippery or wet floors • uneven surfaces • electrical cords where you walk • clutter in the floor • throw rugs To help yourself, look around your house and see if there are things that might put you at risk. Think about your health and physical fitness. If you have tingling, burning or pain in your legs or feet, tell your doctor. This may be peripheral neuropathy—the loss of feeling due to nerve damage—since about 20% of those over 65 have this condition. Review the prevention tips. They may help you avoid a fall.