3 Tips For Fall Prevention

In the senior population, a fall can not only be troublesome but it can be dangerous. Caregivers go through great lengths to work to prevent (or at least reduce the possibility of falling).

The numbers can be eye opening. According to the CDC’s website:

• One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.
• Each year, 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
• Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture.
• Each year at least 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
• More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways.
• Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

It is important to recognize that falling plays a significant role in injuries to seniors, which is why we need to discuss several ways to prevent falls from occurring.

Assess the Living Area

Without even realizing it, living areas can be somewhat dangerous to the elderly. Slips and falls happen all of the time due to unseen objects or slippery surfaces.

Within the living areas, make sure that all pathways are clean and open. Check the rugs to make sure that they do not bundle up or have the potential of slipping when stepped on. Also make sure that handrails are present and stable in areas where support may be necessary.

Maintain Health Checkups

It is also important that ongoing health assessments are taking place with the seniors healthcare provider. This can help to rule out any conditions that cause dizziness or unsteadiness. For those that may have a condition that requires medication, it is important that the physician manage the medications. Some interactions can have the side effect of sleepiness or dizziness.

Additionally, it is important that the health care team is involved in making certain that seniors maintain an active lifestyle, both for their physical and mental health.

Pay Attention to Bath Areas

The bathroom area can be an area of higher risk for slips and falls. Water on the floor, moving into or out of a shower, or getting up from or going down to a toilet all can cause risk of falls.

It is important that bathrooms are given special attention to detail when preventing falling situations. Make sure sturdy handrails are available in areas of need. Ensure that possible areas of slippery tiles are recognized. Ensure the use of home assistance products to allow for better stability for seniors.