When you get to a certain age, tripping over turns into "a fall". When younger people fall, injuries are unlikely, but adults over the age of 65 are much more likely to be hospitalized by falls.
They're also much more susceptible to them, according to stats from the CDC; around 25% of older adults will report a fall this year. The good news is that while older people here in Auburn, AL are at an increased risk of falling, a fall prevention program is quite effective at protecting seniors from harm.
Are you interested in learning more about this crucial form of independent living safety? Read on to learn some useful senior safety tips regarding fall prevention.
A fall prevention program, such as balance exercises for seniors, is a crucial part of senior living safety because it helps prevent the dreaded senior injury cascade. According to the NIA, that's when one injury leads to another, which may then cause another injury, and so on. This is because falls can cause:
The harmful effects of falls have a cumulative effect, so the best way to support seniors is to provide effective fall prevention activities as soon as they're needed. That way, you prevent the cycle of falling from beginning in the first place.
Balance support for seniors is incredibly important, as falls can be quite dangerous. According to UCLA Health, seniors who fall are at risk of head injuries or internal bleeding.
To make matters worse, these symptoms are not always obvious. In some cases, these internal injuries won't present with observable symptoms for several hours. Caregivers should look out for the following red flags after a fall:
If you notice any of these symptoms in a senior who's recently fallen, you'll need to take them to the emergency room immediately.
Aging reduces strength, balance, and reaction times, making falls more likely. Local seniors and their caregivers should be aware of how these healthcare factors can increase the risk of falls.
Leg and hip problems don't just cause pain; they also increase sway and make missteps more likely. Thankfully, there are mobility aids for seniors that can help.
Also, seniors can regain mobility and balance through appropriate strength training. That's why independent living communities often host exercise classes and similar activities.
Many seniors have low blood pressure, causing a whole laundry list of potential health risks. For instance, seniors with low blood pressure can get dizzy when they stand up too quickly. Seniors with low blood pressure should take care when moving around.
It's hard to find a senior who doesn't take handfuls of pills every day. Some medications increase fall risk. For example, some drugs are meant to lower blood pressure. While they're great for treating hypertension, they can increase dizziness and make seniors more susceptible to falling.
Seniors who suspect medication is causing increased fall risk should talk to their doctor about their prescriptions.
Many homes contain hazards that increase fall risk. Common issues include poor lighting, cluttered paths, unstable surfaces, and storage that requires reaching or climbing.
Check the stairs, the bathroom, the route from bed to bathroom, the kitchen, and the entryways for quick, big changes. After a remodel or getting new furniture, check again to ensure everything is safe.
Use the following checklist to adapt senior living environments for fall prevention:
Grab bars are excellent for fall prevention, but it's essential that these safety features are correctly installed. They are load-bearing safety devices, not decorative pieces.
To work as intended, they need to be mounted according to the instructions, either directly into studs or with certified anchors that match the wall material. If someone grabs it in a panic, an improper installation could be ripped out of the wall.
If you feel uncertain, work with a professional. The pro will handle layout, hardware selection, and height so the bar withstands more force than it will realistically ever face.
Falls are common yet preventable. With smart home design, proper grab bars, medication reviews, and steady strength and balance practice, older adults can stay independent and confident.
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Contact us here at Monarch Estates to schedule a tour of our independent living community in Auburn, AL. Ask about our fall prevention program that includes effective grab-bar placement, lighting fixes, and balance exercises for seniors.