There are many ways to reduce the chances of sustaining a traumatic brain injury. Here are several, provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.
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- Buckle Up Every Ride – Wear a seat belt every time you drive – or ride – in a motor vehicle.
- Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Wear a helmet, or appropriate headgear, when you or your children:
- Ride a bike, motorcycle, snowmobile, scooter, or use an all-terrain vehicle;
- Play a contact sport, such as football, ice hockey, or boxing;
- Use in-line skates or ride a skateboard;
- Bat and run bases in baseball or softball;
- Ride a horse; or
- Ski or snowboard.
- Prevent Older Adult Falls
- Talk to your doctor to evaluate your risk for falling, and talk with them about specific things you can do to reduce your risk for a fall.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medicines to see if any might make you dizzy or sleepy. This should include prescription medicines, over-the counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
- Have your eyes checked at least once a year and update your eyeglasses if needed.
- Do strength and balance exercises to make your legs stronger and improve your balance.
- Make your home safer. Add handrailings where needed. Remove or secure area rugs.
- Make living and play areas safer for children
- Install window guards to keep young children from falling out of open windows.
- Use safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs when young children are around.
- Make sure your child’s playground has soft material under it, such as hardwood mulch or sand.