Falls Impact More than Seniors’ Physical Health
As our loved ones age, there are many aspects of their wellness that we should be concerned with. This may include dementia or brain health, social wellness, physical activity, and mobility. Depending on your loved one’s medical history, your family may be concerned with some senior-ailments more than others. Regardless, their physical mobility and safety is essential to long-term wellness and independence.
Did you know that falls – and subsequent injuries – are the #1 reason why seniors lose their independence? Every year, 1 in 3 senior adults will experience a fall, with more than 800,000 of these resulting in a hospital stay.
If you are concerned with your loved one’s health and wellness as they age, being proactive about fall prevention should be a priority.
The Impact of Falls for Seniors
Physical
The physical injuries of a fall are often the first thing that comes to mind when considering the impact of falls for seniors. Hip fractures are the most common injury caused by falls and can lead to hospitalization, surgery, and extensive physical rehab.
- Only 25% of all seniors who experience physical injury as a result of a fall will make a full recovery
- 40% of seniors who experience a hip fracture due to falling will never return home, requiring care in a facility or residential setting
Emotional
After a senior experiences a fall, it is common for them to develop a fear of future falls – and rightfully so! Falls are traumatic events and can result in emotional distress for seniors.
If the fall occurred while they were home alone or doing an everyday task such as getting to the bathroom or kitchen, your loved one may be afraid to do these things on their own.
It is common for seniors to hold onto walls or furniture, shuffle their feet, or look down at the floor for balance after a fall. Although they see it as a method to prevent future falls, these adjustments can actually worsen their balance and make future falls more likely.
Social
Similar to the emotional impact of falls, which may make seniors hesitant or afraid, the social repercussions of a fall can include:
- Isolation – preferring to stay home or avoiding activities that they view as a fall-risk
- Loneliness – missing family functions and connecting with friends can cause feelings of loneliness and sadness
- Decline in mental wellness – without social stimulation, seniors’ cognitive function can decline, causing confusion
Preventing Falls & Promoting Wellness
Falls do not “just happen”. There are certain risk factors that seniors and their caretakers should be aware of to prevent the risk of falls and subsequent injuries.
Some things that may increase the risk of falls include:
- Loss of strength and flexibility
- Limited mobility and balance
- Changes in eyesight and hearing
- Shuffling
- Chronic pain
- Poor circulation that causes decreased sensation in the feet
- Negative side effects from medication
- Dehydration or lack of proper nutrients
Reducing the risk of falls is the first step to preventing them. Some of these risk factors come naturally with age, while others can be managed and prevented. The key thing to remember is that through proper assistance and monitoring, seniors can maintain their independence at home while preventing falls and injuries.
Home Care Supports Fall Risk Reduction
With help from a Visiting Angels caregiver, your senior loved one can maintain their independence at home while preventing falls. Our caregivers can assist with all activities of daily living to ensure your senior loved one is living their very best life.
This may include help with:
- Meal Preparation – caregivers can shop for groceries, prepare meals, and store leftovers in easy-to-access containers. Your loved one can have well-balanced meals readily available without the struggle of cooking and cleaning up
- Medication & Fluid Reminders – taking medication at the right time and with the correct fluid or foods can help prevent negative side effects, like feelings of dizziness.
- Personal Hygiene – caregivers can assist with bathing or showering, getting dressed, and personal grooming. Help with getting to the toilet and incontinence care can ensure health and safety when using the bathroom
- Overnight Care & Monitoring – seniors may experience falls during the night, when trying to get to the bathroom or kitchen. Seniors with dementia who are prone to wandering may also require overnight care to ensure their safety.
If you would like to learn more about how help from a Visiting Angels caregiver can support your loved one’s safety and independence at home, please call our office in Dallas, TX today. We’re happy to answer your questions and create a plan of care that best meets your family’s needs.