Fear of falling is one of the largest obstacles standing between older people and active lifestyles. This fear can be debilitating, causing a person to curtail favorite activities.

Day-to-day living can be affected. Something as simple as grocery shopping can be stressful. The hustle of a crowd can ignite the fear of being knocked down. While it seems to make sense that less activity would result in less risk, the opposite is true.

Reduced activity comes with its own set of problems. It can increase the risk of falling and lower the quality of life.

Fear of falling can keep one from going shopping with a friend, playing with a grandchild or attending church. Inactivity weakens the muscles and bones. With the ensuing isolation and loneliness comes the risk of falling because the body has lost much of its former strength.

There are ways to reduce the fear and minimize risk.

Check the home for things that could pose a threat, and take precautions:

. Be sure area rugs are secured with double-sided carpet tape or give them away.

. Use nightlights in darkened hallways and in bathrooms.

. Keep clutter out of pathways and off stairs.

. Watch out for electrical or extension cords that could cause one to trip.

. Arrange furniture so it is not in the way and don’t rush to answer the telephone or doorbell.

. Don’t try to carry too many items at once in an effort to save a few steps. Carry only what can be managed comfortably.

. Use nonslip decals or a rubber mat in the bathtub. Install handrails.

. Wipe up spilled water immediately in the bathroom or kitchen.

. Keep a watchful eye on pets. A cat or dog can get underfoot in an instant.

Enlist the help of family members or friends to make some of these changes. A second set of eyes is helpful when looking for potential hazards.

Have vision checked regularly and corrected if necessary. If the ground looks fuzzy or distorted, tell a doctor.

Speak with a doctor if any medication causes dizziness. Use a cane when walking on uneven ground or in unfamiliar territory. Shoes should fit well and have nonslip soles.

Staying active and exercising are two of the best ways to prevent falls. Socializing with friends and having fun can prevent depression and isolation, while exercise will maintain strong muscles and bones.

Eastern Agency on Aging offers an eight-session program called “A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls,” that will address the fear of falling and ways to prevent it.

This is a free class and enrollment is limited to 12. Another class will be offered in the spring. Call Eastern Agency for dates and times. A speaker is available to make presentations to groups interested in learning more about the program.

To qualify for the class one must be age 60 or older, have the ability to be independent, and be ambulatory. There must be no cognitive impairment. This class is for anyone who has fallen or is concerned about falling.

Fear is a powerful force and, if allowed to, it can take over. It can rob a person of everything held near and dear. It can take away independence and interfere with activities that used to bring pleasure.

While we are powerless over some of our fears, some can be extinguished with knowledge. Fear of falling could be in that category, with a little effort.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on “Matter of Balance” or other services provided by EAA, call Chuck or Marilyn at 941-2865.