Learning how to prevent senior falls is vital to keep your aging loved one safe, not only during the upcoming holidays but all year round.
Four Reasons Why Preventing Senior Falls is Important
1.Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. 1 in 4 older adults falls each year.
2. Falls result in injuries, such as hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries.
3. Falls, with or without injury, carry a heavy burden on quality of life. After a fall, many older adults develop a fear of falling and, as a result, limit their activities and social engagements.
4. Fear of falling can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness.
Four Areas to Focus on When Preventing Senior Falls
LIGHTING: Increase lighting throughout the house, especially at the top and bottom of the stairs. Ensure that lighting is readily available when getting up in the middle of the night.
STAIRS: Make sure there are two secure rails on all stairs.
BATHROOMS: Install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. Make sure they’re installed where your loved one would actually use them. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and hand-held shower.
FLOORS: Keep floors clutter-free. Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.
10 Tips on How to Prevent Senior Falls
- Install handrails and grab bars along staircases, hallways, and bathrooms.
- Improve lighting in the house by adding lamps, brighter bulbs, and nightlights.
- Have your vision checked regularly.
- Remove or tack down all throw rugs. Rugs can be a safety hazard, especially for seniors. As we age, our balance starts to falter. So, by removing hazards like loose rugs, you can reduce the risk of falls.
- Rearrange furniture to create clear paths to walk in the home.
- Wear shoes with good rubber soles.
- Sit down to get dressed and put your shoes on.
- Make sure a healthcare professional is managing your current medications. Some medicines can affect balance.
- Exercise regularly. Having a sturdy core can help your balance.
- Get rid of cords in your house or tuck them out of the walkway.
This article was compiled with the help of Home With Help. The original article can be viewed here.