Let Assisting Hands Home Care Help Prevent In-Home Falls
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among individuals over 65 years of age, according to the CDC. Factors such as illnesses, medications, and environmental hazards can all impact strength and balance, significantly increasing the risk of falls. Alarmingly, data suggests that once a person has fallen, there is a 75% chance they will experience another fall within six months. As we age, especially after 63, the number of deaths from falls begins to rise, with dramatic increases occurring around age 70. However, it’s a common misconception that falls are an inevitable part of aging. In reality, falls are preventable.
Understanding Fall Risks
Illnesses and Medications: Chronic health conditions and certain medications can lead to dizziness, weakness, and impaired balance, all of which contribute to an increased risk of falling.
Environmental Factors: Poorly lit areas, clutter, and unsafe home layouts can create hazardous conditions that lead to falls.
Assisting Hands’ Timely Advice for Fall Prevention
At Assisting Hands Home Care, we are dedicated to helping seniors live safely and independently in their own homes. Here are some crucial steps to help prevent in-home falls:
1. Consult Your Doctor
Start by discussing your fall risk with your physician. It’s important to manage any existing medical conditions effectively and to review your medications for potential side effects that could impact your balance. Remember:
- Follow Medication Dosages Closely: Taking medications incorrectly can lead to dizziness.
- Communicate Changes: If you experience any new symptoms after a medication change, talk to your doctor immediately.
- Never Stop Medications Without Consultation: Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
2. Enhance Home Safety
Making your home safer can significantly reduce fall risks. Consider these practical steps:
- Wear Proper Footwear: Use shoes with nonskid soles instead of house slippers or sandals.
- Improve Lighting: Ensure that all areas of your home, especially the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and stairways, are well lit. Install night lights in critical areas.
- Eliminate Hazards: Remove throw rugs, tack down loose carpet edges, and keep floors clear of clutter and electrical cords.
- Install Safety Features: Add grab bars in the bathtub, shower, and toilet areas, as well as handrails on both sides of stairways.
- Avoid Climbing: Don’t attempt to climb on stools or stepladders. If tasks require height, ask for assistance from a caregiver.
- Maintain a Clean Floor: Keep floors dry and avoid waxing them to reduce slip risks.
3. Consider Home Care Support
If you’ve experienced falls in the past or have difficulty getting in and out of bed or chairs, hiring a caregiver could be beneficial. An in-home caregiver can assist with transfers, mobility, and other daily tasks, helping you maintain your independence while minimizing fall risks.
- Cost-Effective Solution: The cost of hiring a caregiver is typically about one-third the cost of nursing home care.
- Strengthening Programs: Consider working with a Physical Therapist to create a strengthening program tailored to your needs.
All Assisting Hands Home Care caregivers are specially trained in fall prevention, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills necessary to help reduce fall risks.
Take Action for Fall Prevention
Remember, the best predictor of a future fall is a history of falls. By talking with your doctor, starting a guided exercise program, and considering professional home care support from Assisting Hands Home Care Middle Tennessee, you can significantly enhance your safety at home.
Contact us today to learn more about our in-home care services and how we can assist you or your loved ones in creating a safer living environment. Together, we can help you live independently and confidently, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing your quality of life.
