Falls are a common concern among older adults, but they are not an inevitable part of aging. In fact, seniors who adopt fall prevention strategies and stay physically active can significantly reduce their risk of falling. In this guide, we cover seven practical tips to help older adults stay safe and steady.
Each year, one in three Americans aged 65 and older experiences a fall. This adds up to millions of incidents, some resulting in severe injuries like broken bones or head trauma, while others can unfortunately be fatal. Even non-fatal falls often lead to hospitalization and a loss of independence, which can greatly impact a senior’s quality of life.
While most falls don’t cause serious harm, one in five results in significant injury. Head injuries, in particular, require immediate medical attention to rule out brain damage. Additionally, many seniors develop a fear of falling, which can lead to reduced activity levels and ironically, this inactivity increases their risk of falling further.
These outcomes highlight the importance of proactive fall prevention. Both seniors and their caregivers can take meaningful steps to minimize fall risks. The first step is understanding the common causes of falls in older adults, empowering them to make informed changes to their environment and lifestyle.
Tip 1: Understand Fall Risks
Falls can happen due to a number of reasons, such as the side effects of the senior’s medications. Some antidepressants, antihistamines, and sedatives make older patients tired or affect their thinking. Supplements, too, can have the same effect and increase the senior’s risk of falling.
Trouble with mobility and balance are age-related issues that can precede a fall. Older people who develop muscle weakness, such as through a sedentary lifestyle, are at risk for falls. As mentioned, a fear of falling is responsible for some falls in the elderly.
Tip 2: Visit the Doctor
Seniors can mitigate their chances of falling by discussing specific fall prevention strategies with their doctor. The medical provider might wean the patient off drugs that increase fall risks. During the visit, the physician also evaluates the senior’s muscle strength, balance, and gait, which impact falls.
Tip 3: Stay Physically Active
Develop an enjoyable exercise plan with the help of a caregiver. It may include gentle activities, such as tai chi, water workouts, or walking. By sticking to an exercise routine, the elderly improve their strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination which reduces fall risks.
Older adults who are afraid of falling may neglect to exercise due to fear of falling again. Seniors can overcome this fear by working with a physical therapist who can customize an exercise plan that feels comfortable and builds muscle strength, balance, and flexibility.
Tip 4: Rely on Assistive Devices
Canes and walkers help the elderly stabilize as they navigate their surroundings. Additional supportive devices include grab bars in the bathroom, handrails on both sides of the stairs, and a raised toilet seat. Non-slip treads on wooden floors reduce the risk of slipping and falling.
The Fall Prevention Foundation recommends independence poles that can be installed throughout various parts of the home, from the kitchen to the bedroom. The poles are available as rails, parallel bars, and poles with crossbars to keep seniors steady on their feet at home.
Tip 5: Declutter the Home
Seniors spend significant time at home, and falls are possible if the environment is cluttered. Eliminate potential fall hazards and create more space to make the home safer. Move objects like coffee tables and plant stands to low-traffic areas. Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape or remove them altogether.
Store kitchen and bathroom essentials so they are within easy reach. When the floorboards loosen or carpeting snags, repair them right away to reduce trip hazards. Remove electrical cords, phone cords, magazine stacks, and other obstructions from walkways in the home.
Tip 6: Wear Sensible Footwear
Floppy slippers, high heels, and shoes with slick soles increase the risk of falls in the elderly. Wearing sensible shoes is a good part of a fall prevention plan. Seniors should wear shoes that fit properly, preferably flat and with non-skid soles. As a plus, proper footwear reduces joint pain.
Tip 7: Join a Fall Prevention Program
Seniors should explore fall prevention programs offered in their area. These free programs are aimed at older adults who are less active, helping them reduce their fear of falling and increase their activity levels. Classes are held in small groups over a course of several weeks.
During the sessions, seniors learn to recognize that falls are controllable. Instructors motivate them to set goals for increasing physical activity and help them gain strength, balance, and flexibility. Elderly participants also learn how to reduce fall risks, such as by modifying the home.
Assisting Hands Home Care Helps Reduce Falls
Fall prevention is well within reach for seniors, especially with the support of a professional caregiver from Assisting Hands Home Care. As a leader in quality home health care, we are committed to promoting the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the seniors we serve.
Our fall prevention services include transportation to medical appointments, where seniors can discuss medication side effects with their healthcare provider. If medication adjustments are needed, we provide timely reminders to ensure seniors take the correct dosages at the right times.
To create a safer home environment, our caregivers assess and eliminate fall risks, such as clutter, loose rugs, and exposed cords. Through our light housekeeping services, we maintain a clean, comfortable space and promptly address spills to prevent slips and falls.
Our home care professionals are highly trained to offer mobility support and transfer assistance, helping seniors move confidently and securely. We also incorporate regular exercise into daily routines to boost physical activity, improve strength, and enhance balance.
At Assisting Hands Home Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional fall prevention services for seniors in Las Vegas, Henderson, Paradise, Summerlin, Nevada. Our licensed, bonded, and insured caregivers are committed to improving the safety and quality of life for older adults. Call at (725) 696-9942 today to schedule a free in-home consultation and discover how we can help.
