Falls at home are a huge risk for seniors and are the leading cause of accidents for people over age 65.A fall can easily result in a serious injury that is a threat to a senior’s health and independence. There are numerous reasons that falls might occur: poor eye sight, illness, weakness in muscles, dementia, side effects of medications, etc. And although some of these precipitators may be corrected to help reduce the risk of falling, the area to truly focus on is the prevention of falls.
Fall Prevention Tips:
1. Begin by making an appointment with your doctor for a full physical focusing on medications, history of falls, and general health issues (balance, visual, hearing, general health).
2. Continue or begin a walking/exercise regiment (of course with the doctor’s approval). Tai chi is also very useful in developing good balance. The greater the time without movement oriented exercise, the greater the risk of falling when movement is initiated.
3. Wearing the proper footwear is also critical. Seniors should be walking with wide soled, running or walking sneakers on their feet. Having a good solid base to negotiate uneven terrain can make all the difference in the world. Using lace-up shoes is better than slip-ons. Also, make sure a professional measures the elder’s foot to get the proper fitting shoe.
4. Don’t forget about the inside of the house. Removing hazards such as loose electrical cords, discarded papers, and clothing thrown on the floor keeps pathways clear and safe. Cover slippery floors with nonskid wax or nonslip mats.
5. Make sure living areas are well lighted. As we age, the need for more and more light becomes readily apparent. Check bulb wattage and increase, if necessary. Connect table/floor lamps to wall switches so your elder may turn on the light before entering a dark room. Have flashlights easily accessible in every room (check those batteries). Use plenty of night lights.
6. Have a professional review the home for the need to use assistive devices. For example: hand rails for both sides of a stairway, toilet seats that are raised or have handrails, bathroom grab bars in appropriate spots (i.e., tubs/baths), and railings on outside walkways.
If you are concerned about a senior’s safety at home or would like further information about preventing falls, please contact Visiting Angels at 661-263-2273.