Centers for Disease Control statistics show that annual falls account for 300,000 older adult hospitalizations. However, you can easily keep a loved one from becoming one of the 36 million seniors who will experience a fall this year. Our aim at Home Care Danville is to offer senior home care that gives your loved ones a sense of security. Elder fall prevention is just one example of how we treat our loved ones as if they were our own. Continue reading to learn more about elder fall prevention.

See a Doctor

Ask a healthcare provider to review your senior's list of meds. Some prescriptions, either through side effects or interaction with other drugs, create a fall risk. In addition, certain supplements and over-the-counter remedies can impair balance so ask about those. 

 If your loved one has a history of falling, near falls, or dizziness, report it to the practitioner. Also, enquire if your senior's medical conditions increase the chances of a fall. Regular eye and hearing exams help keep a senior on a vertical base. 

 Activity

Engaging in physical activity is crucial for preventing falls among seniors. Low-impact exercises like Tai Chi promote balance, coordination, flexibility, and strength, reducing the risk of falls. Incorporating fall prevention activities, such as seated exercises and using a chair or counter for support, enhances stability. Consult your loved one's doctor or physical therapist to tailor a workout regimen that aligns with their specific needs, ensuring a proactive approach to maintaining mobility and preventing falls.

 Proper Footwear

Wearing tennis shoes and shoes with leather or smooth soles increases a senior's fall risk. Safe footwear for a senior fits appropriately. 

• Has a heel no higher than 1"
• It is secured with laces, velcro, or buckle
• It has a rigid and thin slip-resistant sole 

Select shoes for seniors with a heel collar and an angled heel to prevent slippage. Opt for slippers with rubber soles for enhanced stability. Encourage your loved one to avoid wearing slippers outside of the house, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Prioritizing proper footwear contributes to overall safety, providing secure footing and minimizing the potential for accidents.

Clear The Way

The average home is full of tripping hazards. Keep pathways in your loved one's home clear of electrical and phone cords. Keep the center of the living room open by arranging furniture along the walls. Repair or replace damaged carpeting and flooring throughout the house. Secure or remove loose rugs.

 Store food, dishes, and utensils in the kitchen, so your loved one doesn't have to stretch to reach them. Clean up spills and dry-up wet floors immediately. 

Keep The Bedroom Safe

A senior needs to be able to get into and out of bed easily. The height of the bed can be adjusted using bed risers. Replace unsupportive or worn mattresses. 

Keep eyeglasses, a phone, and a flashlight within easy reach of the bed. Position canes and other mobility aids so your senior can use them to get out of bed. Use nightlights. Sitting down is the safest way for an older person to dress and undress. 

Keep the Bathroom Safe

Ensuring bathroom safety for seniors involves decluttering the space, installing handrails in the tub or shower, and placing non-slip mats for enhanced stability. Adding a shower bench or chair enhances safety during bathing, while bars, a raised seat, and a slip-proof mat secure the toileting area. To further prioritize safety, always keep a phone in the bathroom, providing seniors with a means of communication, whether alone or accompanied, ensuring assistance is readily available if needed.

In conclusion, safeguarding senior homes from falls is imperative, considering the significant impact on their well-being. With 36 million seniors experiencing falls annually, proactive measures are crucial. In-Home Care Danville prioritizes elder fall prevention, recognizing its significance in providing a secure environment for loved ones. From regular medical check-ups to proper footwear, physical activity, and home modifications, our comprehensive approach aims to reduce fall risks. By implementing these tips, we strive to create homes that prioritize safety, ensuring the well-being of our seniors.

Caregivers are educated on the importance of preventing falls by identifying and mitigating potential risk factors. Our staff offers a wide range of senior home care services, including fall prevention and home safety checks, to ensure the continued safety and independence of you or your loved one.