According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about half of all senior falls happen at home. Areas that used to be easy for seniors to navigate (such as stairs, the bathroom, and the kitchen) can become safety hazards, resulting in falls causing minor injuries, fractures, or long-term disability. Fortunately, there are a number of preventative measures seniors and their families can take to reduce the risk of falls at home.
Lessen the Threat in High-Risk Areas
The bathroom and kitchen are prone to slick surfaces that can result in a trip or fall. Make these areas safer by retrofitting the bathtub and shower area with grab bars, putting down nonslip mats, and removing any unnecessary clutter. Items stored high in a medicine cabinet or pantry can be moved to a lower shelf so your loved one won’t have to strain to reach them.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the many ways you can reduce your loved one’s risk of falls. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of senior home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Make Home Modifications
If the layout of your loved one’s home poses a fall risk, consider installing a chairlift or placing a ramp on the stairs outside the home. Other home modifications include installing handrails and additional lighting and widening doorways and hallways to facilitate movement if a walker or wheelchair is used.
One of the best ways to reduce the risk of injuries from falls is to have a caregiver close by. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Tucson respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Encourage Regular Exercise
Seniors who follow a daily exercise regimen benefit from stronger muscles and increased balance. Encourage your loved one to try new physical activities so he or she can keep his or her body in optimal condition and lessen the risks of falling when performing daily activities.
Look into Physical Therapy
Engaging in exercises with physical therapists can help seniors strengthen the key areas of the body that are responsible for mobility. Such exercises are especially helpful for seniors living with conditions such as Parkinson’s or arthritis, which can cause joint pain and make getting around a challenging task.
Attend Annual Medical Appointments
Changes in vision, hearing, and mobility can make it more difficult to get around the house and often leave seniors at risk for falls. Regular assessments of general health can be used to evaluate the abilities that tend to change with age, and medical professionals can provide treatment options to maximize senior safety and health at home.
An increased risk of falls is one of the many challenges seniors may have to face. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional homecare. Tucson families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555.