Fear of falling and injuries from a fall is a significant concern of both the caregiver and the care recipient. Studies have shown that injuries from a fall can cause more deaths than either pneumonia or diabetes. The National Safety Injury Center for Injury Prevention and Control estimates that persons over the age of 65 have the highest mortality rate (death rate) from injuries. One-third to one-half of older adults at home are at increased risk for falls. Falls can occur due to stairs in the house or obstacles in the walkway. They can also be related to medical issues such as Dementia, Alzheimer's disease, stroke/CVA, dizziness, fainting, seizures, and other physical and functional disabilities. There are many reasons why an older adult can be the subject of a fall. However, many falls can be prevented.
Daily exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce your loved one’s chances of falling. It improves muscle strength and balance. Home Safety: Remove things you can trip over, such as paper, books, clothes, and shoes, from stairs and places where you walk. Keep all walkways clear and free from clusters. Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping. Always discuss your safety concerns with your loved one before moving any items from their home. Keep items your loved one uses often in cabinets they can reach easily without climbing or using a step stool. If your loved one has a balance issue, encourage them to avoid taking a bath or shower when home alone. Insert grab bars next to the toilet and in the tub or shower. A shower chair, hand-held shower, and non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower floors will decrease the risk of falls.
Adequate lighting is a must. Handrails and good lighting should be present on all staircases. Ensure your loved one wears proper shoes with good support and has thin, non-slip soles. They should avoid wearing slippers and athletic shoes with deep treads. Has your loved one fallen in the past? Check with the doctor to see if they would benefit from physical therapy.
Medication Review: Have the doctor, healthcare provider, or pharmacist review all medications, prescribed, herbal, and over-the-counter drugs, for possible side effects, contraindications, or adverse reactions. Some medications or combinations of medicines can cause you to feel drowsy or lightheaded, leading to falls.
Here are some things to consider. Please encourage your loved one to avoid rushing to answer or get to the door to avoid sudden changes in body position. Using a cordless phone will ensure the phone is readily available. Encourage your loved one to use their walking device, whether a walker or cane. Ensure that the brakes on the walker are functioning at the right height and that the rubber tips are not worn.
Join us on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7 pm for our monthly 45-minute caregiver information and support Zoom. Go to www.comeoutreach.org and click on event. You don’t know what you do not know. Presbyterian Senior Services (PSS) will enlighten us about all the services they offer to seniors and their caregivers.
Diane Cooper
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