{"id":16669,"date":"2024-09-16T17:09:44","date_gmt":"2024-09-16T17:09:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/?p=16669"},"modified":"2024-12-10T05:22:15","modified_gmt":"2024-12-10T05:22:15","slug":"common-fall-risks-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Commonly Overlooked Fall Risks for Seniors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As people age, the risk of falling becomes a more significant concern. For seniors, a simple fall can lead to severe injuries that take a long time to heal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While many people know common fall risks like stairs and slippery floors, several <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/recognizing-common-safety-hazards-around-the-home-for-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">unexpected hazards<\/a> can increase the risk even more. Understanding these hidden dangers can help keep seniors safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#1_Slippery_Indoor_Surfaces_Hidden_Dangers_in_the_Home\" title=\"1. Slippery Indoor Surfaces: Hidden Dangers in the Home\">1. Slippery Indoor Surfaces: Hidden Dangers in the Home<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#2_Poor_Lighting_How_Dim_Areas_Contribute_to_Falls\" title=\"2. Poor Lighting: How Dim Areas Contribute to Falls\">2. Poor Lighting: How Dim Areas Contribute to Falls<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#3_Loose_Carpets_and_Rugs_The_Sneaky_Trip_Factor\" title=\"3. Loose Carpets and Rugs: The Sneaky Trip Factor\">3. Loose Carpets and Rugs: The Sneaky Trip Factor<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#4_Cluttered_Spaces_Why_a_Clean_Floor_Matters\" title=\"4. Cluttered Spaces: Why a Clean Floor Matters\">4. Cluttered Spaces: Why a Clean Floor Matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#5_Uneven_Outdoor_Terrain_Steps_Sidewalks_and_Garden_Hazards\" title=\"5. Uneven Outdoor Terrain: Steps, Sidewalks, and Garden Hazards\">5. Uneven Outdoor Terrain: Steps, Sidewalks, and Garden Hazards<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#6_Unstable_Footwear_The_Role_of_Shoes_in_Fall_Prevention\" title=\"6. Unstable Footwear: The Role of Shoes in Fall Prevention\">6. Unstable Footwear: The Role of Shoes in Fall Prevention<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#7_Medication_Side_Effects_Balance_and_Dizziness\" title=\"7. Medication Side Effects: Balance and Dizziness\">7. Medication Side Effects: Balance and Dizziness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#8_Inadequate_Handrails_and_Support_The_Need_for_Extra_Stability\" title=\"8. Inadequate Handrails and Support: The Need for Extra Stability\">8. Inadequate Handrails and Support: The Need for Extra Stability<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#9_Pets_An_Overlooked_Hazard_around_the_House\" title=\"9. Pets: An Overlooked Hazard around the House\">9. Pets: An Overlooked Hazard around the House<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#How_You_Can_Keep_Your_Senior_Loved_One_Safe_at_Home\" title=\"How You Can Keep Your Senior Loved One Safe at Home\">How You Can Keep Your Senior Loved One Safe at Home<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#How_Always_Best_Care_of_Birmingham_Can_Help\" title=\"How Always Best Care of Birmingham Can Help\">How Always Best Care of Birmingham Can Help<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Slippery_Indoor_Surfaces_Hidden_Dangers_in_the_Home\"><\/span>1. Slippery Indoor Surfaces: Hidden Dangers in the Home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Polished floors, wet kitchen tiles, and rugs without slip-resistant backing are all common hazards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors should wear non-slip shoes indoors and ensure any floor mats or rugs are secure to prevent sudden slips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Poor_Lighting_How_Dim_Areas_Contribute_to_Falls\"><\/span>2. Poor Lighting: How Dim Areas Contribute to Falls<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dim hallways, stairwells, or even bedrooms can make it harder for seniors to see where they\u2019re stepping, leading to missteps or tripping.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure all areas of the home are well-lit, especially walkways and <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/fall-prevention-5-ways-to-make-stairs-safer-for-the-senior-in-your-life\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">stairs<\/a>, by using brighter bulbs or nightlights where needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Loose_Carpets_and_Rugs_The_Sneaky_Trip_Factor\"><\/span>3. Loose Carpets and Rugs: The Sneaky Trip Factor<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXeaPfPTHMu-TXIBUS0Si9_iqKY8ZmZSmyTlydXdRQWxwyPq1o8h3uLbaWDvwqL6SNKlkdcfzo4kNUqsp4kHFGwSuHhHiZ9IUFPi-s1XOh8hT3JD8MYpZ5EEAjjzxXniNqx9ZnDPrxQEdB2n-A02_DE9g-HBPvq3aPtNEHKY?key=p8y_unK2EMWIoZi6DKcr2g\" alt=\"This image depicts a senior man hurting in shoulder after having fallen\" title=\"senior-man-hurting-shoulder\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rugs and improperly secured carpets can easily bunch up or move, creating a tripping hazard. Even small throw rugs or doormats can become a problem.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Securing rugs with double-sided tape or using non-slip pads underneath can help keep the floor smooth and safe for walking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Cluttered_Spaces_Why_a_Clean_Floor_Matters\"><\/span>4. Cluttered Spaces: Why a Clean Floor Matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/resources\/clearing-away-clutter-spring-cleaning-activities-for-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clutter might not seem like a big deal<\/a>, but small objects like shoes, cords, or magazines on the floor can easily cause a senior to trip.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping walkways and living areas free from clutter is an easy way to reduce the risk of falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Uneven_Outdoor_Terrain_Steps_Sidewalks_and_Garden_Hazards\"><\/span>5. Uneven Outdoor Terrain: Steps, Sidewalks, and Garden Hazards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outdoor areas present another level of risk, especially with uneven pavement, steps without railings, or garden paths.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors should be cautious when walking outdoors and consider using handrails or a walking aid for added stability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Unstable_Footwear_The_Role_of_Shoes_in_Fall_Prevention\"><\/span>6. Unstable Footwear: The Role of Shoes in Fall Prevention<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXdS0gjvaUq3-3emPFKU8H52rR_wjfEFaobeh8X1I3a6fWbPw0kvZx5yPUmRLFt_twZhw5HnqEjAPtjBn-yjUUO7ThZBZEIPW5RT6kS5XFDkmsoRce5g-Ygdom2GXaXfEXJP7TXtn4UuHOf9ljMHHcMH0WUFYimRfDd9ztBd4Q?key=p8y_unK2EMWIoZi6DKcr2g\" alt=\"This image depicts a senior woman on the floor after having fallen on stairs\" title=\"senior-woman-floor-fallen-stairs\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wearing the wrong type of shoes, like slippers without grip or sandals with no support, can increase the risk of falls.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors should wear sturdy shoes that fit well and provide good traction, even when they\u2019re just at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Medication_Side_Effects_Balance_and_Dizziness\"><\/span>7. Medication Side Effects: Balance and Dizziness<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/keeping-medications-organized\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">medications<\/a> can cause dizziness or affect balance, making it easier for seniors to fall.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regularly check with a doctor about any side effects that could lead to falls and adjust medications if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Inadequate_Handrails_and_Support_The_Need_for_Extra_Stability\"><\/span>8. Inadequate Handrails and Support: The Need for Extra Stability<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Handrails and grab bars can be lifesavers, but many homes don\u2019t have enough of them, or they\u2019re not installed securely.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/resources\/promoting-bathroom-safety-for-seniors-while-supporting-independence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bathrooms and stairs<\/a> are key places where extra support is needed, and ensuring these safety features can make all the difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Pets_An_Overlooked_Hazard_around_the_House\"><\/span>9. Pets: An Overlooked Hazard around the House<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXcvIE_CpiEMuLNHdpoumZHXVhmzyiq_xjl0uLD590nqDT4bqvXa3kdE1J_SfaoZB8NfQpwPMDeFh1HsUY0YkE9IdhWDpjg7MEGgT9Ta3rqHvBLQG6Hlhp3HEOmlQLt2KMMNVmwncli4XbW5SrknfWb4jl-XzgCdgIWVoRI90g?key=p8y_unK2EMWIoZi6DKcr2g\" alt=\"This image depicts a senior woman playing with a dog and smiling\" title=\"senior-woman-playing-dog-smiling\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/resources\/furry-friends-the-benefits-of-pets-for-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pets<\/a> are wonderful companions but can also be a fall risk for seniors. Small dogs or cats might dart around and get underfoot or accidentally bump into someone while running around.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being mindful of pets is essential, especially in smaller or cluttered spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_You_Can_Keep_Your_Senior_Loved_One_Safe_at_Home\"><\/span>How You Can Keep Your Senior Loved One Safe at Home<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Making a few minor adjustments to a home can go a long way in keeping seniors safe. Being proactive about safety reduces fall risk and can help your loved one feel more comfortable in their surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by decluttering the home and ensuring that all areas are well-lit.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adding grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on the stairs can provide extra stability.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, consider having your loved one wear sturdy shoes with good grip, even indoors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular checkups with their doctor to review medications and assess balance can also help reduce the risk of falls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"This image depicts a caregiver helping a senior woman stand up while using a walker\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXc4wnwzwSFkv4EXyRzEPZy6i6kvlOsAtCyRn9dJISZVFcW9aRWF8TAVBEx6l_oST1mcACmOCOe3oNOf57NHOJPTKcDpu9j_bJV1PEHVCPb39Fp119PQN3fFLlUdLBHWbSIiLnL4iCuY9svmCyXgoIHFalExTc7zYGP9Dsc9?key=p8y_unK2EMWIoZi6DKcr2g\" width=\"624\" height=\"351\"><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Always_Best_Care_of_Birmingham_Can_Help\"><\/span>How Always Best Care of Birmingham Can Help<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always Best Care of Birmingham offers professional <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/in-home-care\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in-home care services<\/a> that focus on keeping seniors safe and supported.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From providing personal care to assistance with mobility and household tasks, the caregivers at Always Best Care help reduce fall risks while allowing seniors to remain in the comfort of their homes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Always Best Care of Birmingham<\/a> at <a href=\"tel:(659) 200-5714\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(659) 200-5714<\/a> to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore how medications can significantly affect balance and coordination in older adults, increasing fall risks, and learn strategies to manage these hazards.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":16941,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[163,166,169,234],"tags":[379,380,381,382,383,384],"class_list":["post-16669","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-in-home-care-services","category-tips","category-aging-well","category-senior-care"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16669","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16669"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16669\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16941"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16669"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16669"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/birmingham\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16669"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}