Reducing the Risk of Falls

We all fall and get back up multiple times in our lives, physically and metaphorically. However, falls can mean much more for seniors than just a scraped knee. Therefore, preventing falls remains a top priority, one family members and caregivers can address through a comprehensive approach. Below, you’ll find several tips and resources on how you can help an aging loved one reduce the risk of falls to prevent potentially life-threatening injuries.

A Systematic Approach to Reducing Falls for Seniors

Preventing seniors from falling requires several steps, from performing a fall risk assessment and creating a safe home environment to adhering to routine medical care appointments, investing in emergency services technologies, and addressing psychological aspects associated with falling. Read on to learn more about reducing the risk of falling for senior loved ones in your life.

Perform a Fall Risk Assessment

Healthcare providers often perform fall risk assessments as patients age to help them avoid potential falls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers several resources for fall risk assessments. You can also perform a basic fall risk assessment of your aging loved one’s home by reviewing the circumstances that may contribute to tripping or falling.

Create a Safe Home Environment

Seniors aging in place maintain their health and independence with homes free from fall risks. Caregivers and loved ones can help create a safe environment by removing tripping hazards, placing mats down to create traction on slippery surfaces, and modifying interior features to promote safety.

Seek Routine Medical Care

Routine visits to review overall health, vision, and medications can help seniors reduce the risk of falling. Certain medications can cause dizziness, so talk to your doctor about all possible side effects. Annual exams may reveal vision problems, which can then be adequately addressed.

Invest in Emergency Preparedness Technologies

Talking with your senior loved one about what to do if they fall can help them prepare for these circumstances and ease their fears somewhat. Installing emergency assistance devices around the house or investing in wearable devices can increase their peace of mind and expedite emergency responsiveness in times of need.

Address Psychological Aspects

Discussing the possibility of falling with a senior loved one can be challenging. Falling brings several psychological aspects that aren’t necessarily eased by carrying an emergency alert device or reducing fall risks around the home. Instead, it may take consulting a professional to address these justifiable concerns.

Exercise Regularly

Maintaining physical fitness can reduce the risk of falling and build strength. Walking several times a week can help seniors engage in low-impact exercise and improve balance and stability. Weight training and yoga can also contribute to core strength and overall health.

Fall Prevention With Visiting Angels SE-OKC

Visiting Angels SE-OKC offers several services that can help reduce the risk of falls among local seniors. Our caregivers provide supervision and support to prevent circumstances that increase the risk of falling. Our staff also works with seniors and their families to create a customized care plan for ongoing support. Additional resources include the following:

Visiting Angels SE-OKC caregivers can provide assistance and peace of mind if you're concerned about a senior loved one falling. Reach out for a free consultation to learn more about our senior home care services and how we can help address the fear of falling and prevent future falls. Your senior loved one’s safety is paramount to our caregivers and staff.