What Can Be Done to Prevent Falls?

Has your aging parent suffered a fall in the past year? If so, they certainly aren’t alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of people aged 65 and older fall every year. Sadly, only about half of them tell their doctor they have fallen. That’s unfortunate because doctors can evaluate them for the risk of falling again. They can also suggest steps that can prevent future falls, including physical therapy or changes in medications.

However, the doctor is only one member of the team that can keep your parent from falling again. Family caregivers and home health care providers must also take steps to prevent future falls.

Some of the things that can be done to keep your parent from falling at home are listed below.

Clean Up Clutter

Home Health Care Seal Beach CA – What Can Be Done to Prevent Falls?

When walkways are cluttered, it can cause an older adult to catch a toe and trip. Some seniors keep stacks of magazines and newspapers near their favorite chair. Or, they may take off shoes and leave them lying. In addition, pieces of furniture can jut out into walkways where they can be tripped over. Removing clutter from walkways is an important part of preventing falls because it eliminates some of the things an older adult could trip over.

Home health care care can assist with keeping the home tidy by offering basic housekeeping services, including picking up after the senior and putting old magazines and newspapers in the recycling.

Make the Home Brighter

Dimly lit homes can be a hazard for seniors, especially if they don’t see well. Upgrading the lighting in the home by installing new fixtures can make a big difference. It’s also important to ensure light bulbs are promptly changed when they blow out.

Caregivers can change light bulbs to ensure the house stays well lit and your elderly parent doesn’t have to climb on a step ladder or chair to change the bulb.

Remove Loose Rugs

It’s easy for older adults to get their toe stuck under the upturned edge of a loose rug and fall. Loose rugs can also slip under the senior’s foot, which can also make them fall. Loose rugs should be either removed or secured to the floor with adhesives designed for throw rugs.

Home health care care providers can put throw rugs away for your parent, so they don’t slip or trip on them.

Install Handrails and Grab Bars

Handrails and guard rails give older adults something to hold on to, providing assistance with balance. Handrails should be placed on both sides of all staircases. It may also be helpful to put handrails in long hallways. Grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and bath can also prevent falls.

Home health care care providers can remind your parent to use the handrails and grab bars. In addition, a home health care provider can assist them to get in and out of the bath and walk up and down stairs.

Sources:  https://www.everydayhealth.com/longevity/future-planning/prevent-falls-at-home.aspx
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358
https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Health Care Services in Seal Beach CA, please contact the caring staff at 1Heart Care Services today.