As people age, falls become increasingly common and more of a concern for elders since they can result in injuries and a loss of independence. Studies show that 1 in 4 seniors 65 and over fall annually, and around 3 million falls result in ER visits. Many falls can be prevented with the proper measures, such as reviewing medication warnings, using adequate lighting, and hazard-proofing seniors’ homes. Here are some steps that can be taken to prevent falls.
- Staying active – engaging in various activities fosters independence and enhances strength and range of motion. Social activities also help with mental health, which improves overall alertness and outlook.
- Balanced workout routine – regular exercise will improve leg strength, flexibility, and balance, all of which will reduce the risk of falls.
- Healthy food choices – a well-balanced diet is crucial for fall prevention. Lack of certain nutrients in a diet, like calcium and vitamin D, can create weak bones, which makes falls very dangerous. In addition, poor nutrition or skipping meals can produce low blood sugar, which leads to dizziness and confusion and can cause falls. Nutritious meals are essential for overall health and fall prevention.
- Annual vision and hearing exams – hearing and eyesight affect total balance and protect the body’s equilibrium. Unexpected falls can be avoided with early detection of eye and hearing problems and appropriate prescriptions for glasses and hearing aids.
- Review medications – dizziness and drowsiness are adverse effects of certain medications that can seriously impair awareness, balance, and coordination. Regularly reviewing the adverse effects of drugs can help prevent falls.
- Walking aids – stability and balance can be improved using basic walking aids like canes and walkers. They can assist in weight redistribution, balance, and fatigue prevention, all of which reduce the risk of falling.
- Healthcare providers/family members – concerns regarding falls should be discussed with the family and the healthcare professionals. It takes a team to prevent falls; thus, professional or family support might be very valuable.
- Safeguarding your home– verify that the house is clear of clutter and obstructions, all rooms have enough light, all furniture and carpets are fastened firmly, and grab bars are installed in the restroom. All of those are essential in the prevention of unexpected trips and falls.
Fall prevention for seniors is a proactive process, and Just Like Family Home Care can play a crucial role. Caregivers can assess home safety, perform light house cleaning, help with exercises, manage medication schedules, provide companionship, and much more. A secure environment combined with assistance from dedicated caregivers will provide the foundation for fall risk reduction and a safe and healthy way of life for seniors.
Please do not hesitate to contact Just Like Family Home Care with any questions.