The home is where the heart is, but as our loved ones age, it can also become a place of potential hazards. Falling is one of the most common injuries for seniors living at home, sometimes leading to serious consequences. It is essential that we learn how to prevent falls in elderly people living at home, allowing them to live comfortably and safely in their familiar environment.
Here’s a simple, informative guide to helping you understand and address this issue.
1. Identify Potential Hazards
Understanding how to prevent falls in elderly starts with a thorough assessment of the home environment. Look for things like cluttered floors, loose rugs, and poor lighting. Addressing these hazards can make a tremendous difference.
2. Invest in Proper Footwear
Slippers may be comfortable, but they may not provide the necessary grip. Encourage your elderly loved ones to wear non-slip shoes even at home to reduce the risk of slipping.
3. Install Handrails and Grab Bars
Bathrooms and stairs are particularly risky areas. Installing handrails and grab bars can provide much-needed support.
4. Consider a Lift Bed
Scooting, rolling, and maneuvering to get into and out of bed opens the door for many opportunities for slips and falls. Prevent this by getting a bed which elevates to a standing position and skip the scooting. We love the EZLift Bed which is remote operated and has infinite positions as well as movable hand rails.
5. Encourage Regular Exercise
Teaching our aging loved ones how to prevent falls isn’t just about the home environment. Regular exercise can improve strength and balance, vital in preventing falls.
6. Review Medications
Certain medications may cause dizziness or weakness. Regularly reviewing these with a healthcare provider can mitigate these risks.
7. Create a Fall Response Plan
Educate family members and caregivers on how to respond if a fall does occur. Having a plan can minimize the impact and ensure timely medical care.
Understanding how to prevent falls in elderly people at home is a compassionate endeavor. By following these steps, you can create a safer environment and provide the necessary care and comfort for your loved ones. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations.
