Fall prevention for seniors is essential because falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related hospitalizations and loss of independence among older adults.For many older adults, a single fall can lead to a chain reaction of hospitalization, a long recovery, and in some cases, a permanent change in independence.
Falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations among seniors. In fact, 1 in 4 adults over age 65 report falling each year. Once your loved one falls, it’s much more likely that they will not return to the same condition they were previously in.
As we age, our bodies are more prone to injury, and our immune systems often weaken. Even a fall that someone can recover from at home can lead to recurring injury. Think about your friend that hurt their ankle and seems to do it again every year.
Seniors who go into the hospital or a rehab facility are even more at risk. In fact, on any given day, about 1 in 31 hospital patients has at least one healthcare-associated infection (HAI), according to the CDC. These include common illnesses like pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and sepsis. With a weakened immune system, even a minor HAI can derail recovery, prolong hospitalization, or lead to readmission.
Another concern is the increased anxiety seniors often feel after a fall. The fear of falling again can cause them to limit their movement or avoid walking altogether. Over time, this reduced activity can lead to loss of muscle tone, balance, and flexibility, all of which increase the risk of future falls.
Implementing preventative measures in advance of a fall is the best way to get ahead of the curve to prevent future falls, and the potential negative consequences of them.
Fall Prevention for Seniors:
- Use assistive devices
Canes, walkers, and grab bars in bathrooms or showers help with balance and confidence.
- Create a safe home space
Remove cords, throw rugs, and tight walkways to reduce tripping hazards. Ensure that the lighting is bright so they can see where they are walking
- Wear safe footwear
Swap slick-bottom shoes for rubber-soled ones that grip.
- Extra Assistance
Sometimes it’s hard to know what kind of help your aging parent or loved one may need as they grow older. Asking for help to assess their condition can be very useful to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to help keep them safe.
At Assisting Hands Home Care Cave Creek, we offer free in-home assessments to evaluate fall risks and suggest ways to create a safer environment. If your loved one needs extra support, we can match them with a caregiver to assist with walking, showering, and providing peace of mind when you’re not home.
