For many, a fall results in a minor embarrassment, but when an elderly person experiences a fall, serious injury or even death can result. As our loved ones age, their risk of falling increases with each passing year. Did you know that 40% of seniors over the age of 80 experience a fall? Fortunately, there are preventative measures that can be taken in an effort to reduce the risk of a fall for aging loved ones. At Home Health Services our home care providers work hard to help the elderly decrease their risk of falling through our fall prevention program called “Building Better Balance- B3.” We want to share a few helpful tips that can easily reduce the likelihood of your aging loved one experiencing a fall.
To the greatest extent possible, grab bars should be installed in the home. A simple handle near the toilet and inside the shower can dramatically reduce the risk of falling. Another great way to reduce the risk of aging loved ones experiencing a fall, is to remove obstructions such as decorative rugs and unnecessary furniture. When potentially dangerous objects are removed from their path, falls are much less likely to occur.
Sometimes, as people age, they take such pride in their independence that they refuse to use helpful aids such as canes and walkers. If you can convince your aging loved one to use one of these assistive tools, their balance is improved and falling risks are reduced.
There’s no amount of prevention that can completely eliminate the risk of your loved one falling as they age. Sadly, even small falls can result in broken bones for those who have had birthdays that exceed highway speed limits in most states. Unfortunately, broken bones often necessitate lengthy hospital stays for the elderly, which put them at risk for other health complications.
Home Health Services is committed to helping your loved one maintain their independence by living in their own home, but we also know that it’s important to make slight modifications in order to maximize safety. If your loved one is at an increased risk of falling due to their age, let us help them as well as provide you with peace of mind. Contact us today!