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If you are a member of the older population, it pays to watch where you are going.

This comes from reports that came out last year that fatal falls have nearly tripled in older Americans. According to the study, the numbers have risen to more than 25,000 deaths annually.

A 2019 report in the Journal of the American Medical Association stated that death rates from falls for Americans over the age of 75 double from nearly 52 per 100,000 people in 2000 to 122 per 100,000 people in 2016. It also notes that as the person gets older, the higher the rates went: for those among the ages of 75 to 79 years, the rates were 42 per 100,000 people; for the ages of 95 and older, it was 591 per 100,000 people.

But then again, tripping and slipping can happen to anyone. Most falls happen due to tripping or slipping over something, mainly tripping hazards that can be easily remedied, explained Amber Emerson, RN, injury prevention specialist with Trinity Health and coordinator of Safe Kids Minot.

Tripping is very common. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls account for over 8 million hospital emergency room visits, representing the leading cause of visits.

Falls are the leading cause of injury in people aged 65 and older, Emerson says, noting that one out of every three people in that age group fall each year.

To help prevent falls, Emerson recommends doing the following:

Check your home

• Remove area rugs or secure them to the floor

• Remove tripping hazards, such as clutter, cords, and furniture

• Watch for changes in thresholds or flooring height

• Keep living areas well lit

• Use stairway handrails

• In the bathroom: install grab bars in the tub or shower and toilet areas; use a non-slip bathmat; and install a raised toilet seat

Check your outdoor surroundings

• Use extra care when walking on ice or snow

• Watch for changes in your surroundings, such as a hill or incline, or perhaps stairs

• Give your eyes time to adjust to the sun

An annual physical exam, as well as an eye exam, can also be beneficial toward avoiding trips and falls, Emerson pointed out.

Other things can be done to prevent falls:

• Wear shoes with nonskid soles and low heels

• Do not walk in slippers or socks

• Use a mobility aid – such as a cane or walker – as needed

• Avoid distractions when walking

• Use extra care when walking on ice or snow

• Avoid alcohol and drugs