The risk of falling is a major concern for older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the leading cause of injuries among adults over age 65, and falls are the cause of more deaths among people over age 65 than all other accidents combined.

What Causes Falls in Seniors?

Falls are among the most common health concerns in the elderly, accounting for more than three million hospital visits each year. There are many reasons why seniors fall. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Sudden movements: Seniors with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders may have trouble controlling their movements.
• Dizziness: Some seniors may be more prone to fainting and dizziness than others.
• Medication: Seniors may also be on medication that can cause them to be unsteady.
• Poor balance: Poor balance is a common problem with age.
• Medical conditions: Conditions such as arthritis and diabetes can also cause seniors to lose their balance and fall.
• Slippery surfaces: Seniors tend to have more difficulty adjusting to slippery surfaces.
• Loss of vision: Seniors with macular degeneration, cataracts, or other vision problems have trouble seeing obstacles in their path.

Preventing Falls in Seniors

The best way to prevent falls in seniors is to take a proactive approach and address the risk factors. Here are some ways to help:

• Exercise: Exercise is the most important way to prevent falls. Even moderate exercise such as walking and resistance training can reduce the risk of falls.
• Vision: Be sure to check with your senior’s eye doctor for an updated prescription if you think their vision is starting to become a problem.
• Medication: Be sure to tell your senior’s doctor if they are taking medication that would cause poor balance or dizziness.
• Vision: Be sure to check with the eye doctor for an updated prescription if your senior’s think their senior’s vision is starting to become a problem.
• Medical conditions: If your senior has a medical condition, such as diabetes or arthritis, make sure they are taking their medication and following the doctor’s instructions.
• Home Safety: Home safety is a key factor in preventing falls. Seniors who live in homes that are poorly lit and cluttered may be more likely to fall. Check the senior’s home for potential hazards, and keep their home well lit.
• Shoes: Be sure your senior is wearing shoes with good traction to prevent slipping.
• In-Home Care: This is the most effective way to help your senior stay safe from falls. In-home care can provide a number of services to help seniors stay safe, including: personal care, medication reminders, transportation, meal preparation, companionship, laundry, errands, bathing, grooming, safety checks, and etc.

Conclusion

If your senior needs additional help staying safe from falls, in-home care is a great solution. In-home care is also a great option for those who need help with their everyday activities, so your senior can stay as independent as possible. For more information, give us a call today and book a consultation!

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0922-older-adult-falls.html

https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

If You Or An Aging Loved One Are Considering Hiring In-Home Care in South Pasadena, FL, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 727-748-4211.