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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – With Fall Prevention Awareness Month taking place in September in the U.S. and in November in Canada, we want to share some factors that impact fall risk and tips to ensure fall prevention among seniors. Factors that influence fall risk include:
- Level of consciousness/mental status
- History of falls in the past three months
- Ability to ambulate
- Vision status
- Gait and balance
- Presence of one or more pre-disposing conditions such as hypertension, vertigo, Parkinson’s disease, loss of limb(s), stroke, seizures, arthritis, osteoporosis, fractures
- Equipment or assistive device needs (e.g. cane, walker, oxygen)
If you are currently caring for an aging loved one and notice changes in any of the above factors, below are some tips to ensure the safety of the individual and decrease his or her fall risk.
- Assist with balance/mobility. Supervise and aid as needed with ADLs and IADLs such as bathing, dressing, hygiene, getting in and out of bed, meal preparation and transportation. When walking outside or on tiled or wood floors, ensure the individual is wearing sturdy shoes and has a cane available for added support if needed. Never allow him or her to stand on chairs, tables or surfaces with wheels. If using a ladder make sure you have three points of contact – e.g. two feet and one hand.
- Regular exercises. Seniors who stay physically active have improved balance, flexibility and strength. Exercise is also known to reduce stress and depression, improving mental well-being. If applicable, work with a physical therapist to aid in practicing range of motion and muscle strengthening exercises. Give a massage or help the senior perform light stretches often to increase flexibility, as recommended by a doctor.
- Ensure home safety. It’s best to work with a licensed occupational therapist to review the home environment and recommend modifications and techniques to help the senior extend independence, but the following are some basic tips for making the home safer.
- Make sure there is sufficient lighting in every room and hallway. Put bright tape on the steps to alert the individual to any changes.
- Ensure floors are dry. Clean up spills immediately and do not allow the senior to walk on freshly mopped floors.
- Confirm all handrails are firmly secure both inside and outside the home.
- Reduce tripping hazards by checking that all rugs are secured under furniture and no furniture or electrical cords are blocking walking areas.
- Ensure there is room for assistive devices such as walkers.
- Check outdoor walkways for potential tripping hazards.
- Remove small throw rugs.
- Consider adding grab bars or shower benches.
- Monitor vision changes. If the senior mentions vision problems or finds his/her glasses aren’t as helpful anymore, discuss visiting the ophthalmologist to ensure the highest vision quality.
- Assistive equipment. Encourage use of assistive devices when the senior is getting up from a chair or bed. Take special precautions when assisting with transferring the individual. Use a gait belt if he or she is prone to falling or is not stable on his or her feet. This will help you ease the senior to the floor if he or she does begin to fall.
- Maintain your safety. Wear a back brace if the senior requires heavy assist and transfer. Your safety is paramount and keeping your body healthy will allow you to provide the best care possible for the individual.
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