Prevention Is The Best Medicine When It Comes To Elderly Falls
30% Of Older Adults Will Fall This Year
Falls are the leading cause of injury and even death in older adults. With these alarming statistics, a strong focus on elderly fall prevention is important. Falls can be the product of poor health, declining mobility and environmental hazards in the home. Although not everything can be prevented, its important to eliminate the items that are included in the list whenever possible. The other most important factor is to have an emergency plan and be prepared if a fall should occur.
Fall Prevention
There are several things you can do to ensure your elderly loved one is save in their home. Below is a list of a few items that you may want to consider.
Trip Hazards Should Be Top On Your List
1. Stairs - Stairs can pose as a hazard in any home, check to make sure the stairs are not loose, there is a proper railing installed and most importantly the footing is safe and slip-free.
2. Clutter Around The Floor - clear away any areas of clutter, boxes, etc from walk way areas.
3. Footwear - Unsafe footwear can cause a problem, if shoes do not fit properly, the tread has worn and making sure the footwear offers the best support.
Health Reasons
4. Vision Impairment - Have regular routine visions checks and get proper eyewear if necessary. Not being able to visually gauge a step or a walk area could impair judgement and cause instability.
5. Medicines - Some medicines may cause drowsiness or dizziness, including a drop in blood pressure, so extra precaution should be taken when standing or getting up.
6. Physical Activity - Lacking regular physical activity causes a decline in strength, balance and mobility. Keep active whenever possible to prevent further decline.
Fall Prevention
7. Bathrooms - Bathrooms pose many hazards that can easily be prevented. Installing hand rails near the toilet and in the shower/bath area to allow assistance when getting in our up. Be sure to always use slip prevention mats in the shower and on the floor outside to prevent slips on wet flooring.
8. Lighting - Proper lighting throughout the home is essential. Install extra lighting where needed such as the stairs or basement.
9. Medical Alert - Having a medical alert device is a great way to call for assistance should a fall happen. It allows the user to connect with emergency personnel or a loved one should an emergency arise. Medical alerts come in many different pricing options including equipment purchasing or renting options at a low cost of less than $1 per day
Most in home falls can be prevented, we hope this checklist has helped you do more to prevent your elderly loved ones from falling. Please visit our Senior Resources Page for more information and links to great senior resource websites.
