Falls are a leading cause of injury and death among older adults. In an effort to reduce the number of falls, Congresswomen Carol Miller and Melanie Stansbury have reintroduced the Stopping Addiction and Falls for the Elderly (SAFE) Act. The SAFE Act aims to increase fall risk assessments for seniors as part of their Medicare annual wellness benefit.
Importance of Assessing Seniors for Fall Risks
Falls can have serious consequences for seniors, including fractures, head injuries, and even death. In addition to physical injuries, falls can also lead to emotional trauma, such as fear of falling again, which can cause seniors to limit their activities and become isolated.
Fall risk assessments can help identify seniors who are at risk of falling. Once the risks are identified, steps can be taken to reduce the risk of falls.
What Family Members Should Watch For
Family members can play an important role in helping to prevent falls among seniors. Here are some things to watch for:
- Changes in gait or balance
- Use of assistive devices, such as canes or walkers
- History of falls
- Fear of falling
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Medications that can cause dizziness or drowsiness
- Home hazards, such as clutter, narrow pathways, throw rugs, and poor lighting
How Assisting Hands Home Care Can Help
Assisting Hands Home Care – Cave Creek’s home care professionals can assist with fall risk assessments and provide care for your elderly loved one. Our caregivers can help with:
- Mobility and ambulation
- Medication reminders
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Personal care
- Companionship and Supervision
Assisting Hands Home Care can also help you to identify fall hazards in the home and create a safer environment for your loved one.
Additional Resources
Conclusion
Falls are a serious problem for seniors, but they are not inevitable. By taking steps to assess fall risks and make changes to reduce the risk of falls, we can help seniors stay safe and independent.
Contact Assisting Hands Home Care Today
If you are concerned about your loved one’s risk of falling, contact Assisting Hands Home Care – Cave Creek today for a free consultation.
