This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

As we get older, we lose our balance more easily, our bodies become more fragile, and falls become more dangerous. CDC data shows that three million seniors are treated in emergency departments each year for injuries from a fall, such as broken hips, fractures and head injuries. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related morbidity and mortality among older adults.

But falls do not have to be a normal part of aging. Instead of giving up or resigning yourself to inevitably getting hurt in a fall, take action!

There are several steps you can take to make sure you don’t slip, trip and become a statistic. Here are some things you can do to stay steady during your daily routine and prevent falls throughout your life.

Above all, enlist help. Whether you are an older adult yourself or a caregiver for an older loved one, you are not alone and you can prevent falls. Talk to your doctor to discuss changing medications that may cause dizziness, get properly assessed for custom footwear or report health care issues that may affect your balance. Many senior organizations also provide occupational therapists that can assess the need for handrails in bathrooms or assistive devices such as walkers and personal emergency response systems.

Older adults can stay independent and strong for as long as possible if they take the right steps and engage with the right people. Seniors in San Diego can enroll in San Diego Oasis’ low-cost fall prevention fitness classes such as Bone Building Fitness, Tai Chi for Beginners and Progressive Strength, Balance and Flexible Training. San Diego Oasis also offers free or low-cost classes for seniors in a wide variety of topics, from art history to technology, so you can stay sharp and keep learning no matter how old you are. Sign yourself or your older loved one up—or support our efforts by donating or joining us as a volunteer.

Simona Valanciute is the President and CEO of San Diego Oasis, an award-winning nonprofit organization serving people age 50 and better, who pursue healthy aging through lifelong learning, active lifestyles, and community service. Learn more at www.sandiegooasis.org.

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