Although older adults are at risk for falls, an important safety measure is to realize that they can be prevented. It’s vital for caregivers to know how to lower the risk of falls and related injuries in their aging loved ones. Here are ways to keep seniors safe.

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Why Are Falls Dangerous?

Falls, especially when they lead to severe injuries, are a threat to the health of the elderly. They can lead to fractures of the hip, forearm, humerus, or pelvis. Falls are especially threatening when seniors also suffer from osteoporosis, a condition that weakens their bones.

In addition to hip and wrist fractures, seniors who fall can experience other serious injuries, such as hematoma and joint dislocation. Sprains and severe lacerations can result. Falls often send older people to the emergency room and hospitals. In worst cases, falls can lead to death.

How Common Are Falls Among the Elderly?

One in four older adults aged 65 and over falls each year. The risk of falling increases with age. Poorer vision, a lack of regular exercise that keeps the bones and muscles strong, prescription medications, and a home that is not senior-friendly can make falls more likely.

Each year, about 220,000 wrist and hip fractures occur in people aged 65 and over who suffer a fall. In 2021, about 38,000 deaths in this population were caused by falls. Nearly three million older adults were seen in emergency rooms for falls this year as well.

Not all fall-related injuries require medical attention. The National Library of Medicine finds that 3 to 5 percent of falls result in fractures. About 5 to 10 percent of falls require medical care. Nearly half of all fall events result in minor soft tissue damage that doesn’t require medical attention.

How Do Caregivers Lower the Risk of Falls in Seniors?

Regardless of whether or not a fall results in serious injury, caregivers must protect the safety and health of their aging loved ones. When a fall happens, seniors may be forced to restrict their activities, go on bed rest, or endure a long-term disability.

1. Schedule Regular Exercise

Preventing falls in the elderly is crucial to maintaining their health as well as quality of life. Devise an exercise plan for the senior. Regular physical activity keeps their muscles strong but also supports flexibility in their joints, tendons, and ligaments.

Incorporate weight-bearing activities, like walking. Provide mobility assistance when the senior lacks confidence or fears falling. Climbing stairs can slow bone loss caused by osteoporosis. Yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi improve balance, while strength-training with weights or resistance bands increases strength.

2. Test Hearing and Vision

Seniors can fall when their eyesight or hearing fails to allow them to be aware of hazards. Caregivers are advised to schedule yearly vision and hearing tests. If new glasses are ordered, encourage the older adult to take time to adjust to the updated prescription.

3. Modify the Home

Many falls happen in the senior’s home, where they spend most of their time. Install handrails on the stairs and add light switches at the top and bottom. Declutter the home, picking up clothes, shoes, books, and other trip hazards. Remove throw rugs, which seniors can slip on.

Mount grab bars near the toilet and bath. Consider motion-sensitive lights that switch on automatically. In the kitchen, keep frequently used pots and pans within easy reach. During cooking, provide a stool for the senior in the event they feel fatigued or have a loss of balance.

4. Adjust Medications

Some prescription drugs have side effects that can cause dizziness or sleepiness, both of which can lead to falls. Blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and sleep medicines are examples. Speak to the doctor to see if the dose can be lowered or the drug stopped altogether.

5. Provide Safe Footwear

The right footwear can lower the risk of a fall. Seniors should be given shoes that fully support their feet and are non-skid and rubber soled. Avoid high heels. Advise the older adult to not climb the stairs or walk around the home in socks or in slippers with smooth soles.

6. Use a Cane or Walker

Seniors feel steadier on their feet when they use an assistive device. Caregivers should choose a cane that is the appropriate size for the senior or a walker that rolls smoothly. A physical therapist can provide instruction on how to use either device safely and correctly.

7. Stay Inside in Inclement Weather

Storms and rainy weather can create powerful wind gusts and slippery sidewalks that make travel treacherous. Rather than risk falling outside, seniors are advised to stay indoors. A caregiver or community service can pick up medications or shop for essential groceries.

Caregivers can play a big role in lowering the risk of falls in their senior loved ones. By following the abovementioned tips, seniors stay safe and healthy. But when families are too busy to provide ongoing support, the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care are available.

We provide compassionate home care to the elderly in the comfort of their home. Our responsibilities include decluttering the home and removing fall risks, light housekeeping, healthy meal preparation and discreet help with personal hygiene tasks, such as bathing and dressing.

Caregivers provide mobility assistance to ensure seniors get around the home safely. If your aging loved one takes medications, we give timely reminders. Our transportation services include an escort so that seniors feel confident and stable when going to the doctor’s office or conducting errands.

Assisting Hands Palm Beach fulfills the non-medical needs of seniors, including companionship. In-home care options are flexible, comprehensive, and meet the scheduling needs of families. Call us at (561) 566-5989 to schedule a free in-home consult today to learn how we can support your loved one.