{"id":16668,"date":"2024-09-20T08:00:26","date_gmt":"2024-09-20T08:00:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/?p=16668"},"modified":"2024-12-25T14:31:46","modified_gmt":"2024-12-25T14:31:46","slug":"common-fall-risks-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/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, maintaining stability and preventing falls become essential for continuing independence and preserving quality of life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For seniors, the risk of falling is heightened due to various factors, but many <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/resources\/recognizing-common-safety-hazards-around-the-home-for-seniors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hazards around the home<\/a> can go unnoticed. Recognizing these hazards is crucial for keeping seniors safe in their everyday environment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article highlights nine unexpected fall risks that seniors should be aware of and offers practical solutions to help prevent them.<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#1_Loose_Rugs_and_Carpeting\" title=\"1. Loose Rugs and Carpeting\">1. Loose Rugs and Carpeting<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#2_Slippery_Bathroom_Floors\" title=\"2. Slippery Bathroom Floors\">2. Slippery Bathroom Floors<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#3_Improper_Footwear_Choices\" title=\"3. Improper Footwear Choices\">3. Improper Footwear Choices<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#4_Cluttered_Walkways\" title=\"4. Cluttered Walkways\">4. Cluttered Walkways<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#5_Poor_Lighting_in_Key_Areas\" title=\"5. Poor Lighting in Key Areas\">5. Poor Lighting in Key Areas<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#6_Unstable_Furniture\" title=\"6. Unstable Furniture\">6. Unstable Furniture<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#7_Outdoor_Hazards\" title=\"7. Outdoor Hazards\">7. Outdoor Hazards<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#8_Improper_Use_of_Mobility_Aids\" title=\"8. Improper Use of Mobility Aids\">8. Improper Use of Mobility Aids<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#9_Medication_Side_Effects\" title=\"9. Medication Side Effects\">9. Medication Side Effects<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#Why_Safety_Precautions_are_Important_for_Seniors\" title=\"Why Safety Precautions are Important for Seniors\">Why Safety Precautions are Important for Seniors<\/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\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#How_Always_Best_Care_of_Denver_Can_Help\" title=\"How Always Best Care of Denver Can Help\">How Always Best Care of Denver Can Help<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/resources\/common-fall-risks-seniors\/#Take_the_Next_Step_in_Protecting_Your_Loved_Ones_Safety_with_Always_Best_Care_of_Denver\" title=\"Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Loved One\u2019s Safety with Always Best Care of Denver!\">Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Loved One\u2019s Safety with Always Best Care of Denver!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Loose_Rugs_and_Carpeting\"><\/span>1. Loose Rugs and Carpeting<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rugs that aren\u2019t properly secured can be dangerous, especially in areas where seniors frequently walk. Even minor bumps in carpeting can cause trips or stumbles.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To reduce risks, consider securing rugs with non-slip pads or adhesive tape or remove loose rugs from commonly used spaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Slippery_Bathroom_Floors\"><\/span>2. Slippery Bathroom Floors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wet floors in the bathroom pose a significant risk for falls. The combination of water and smooth surfaces can quickly become hazardous.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Installing non-slip mats, adding grab bars near the toilet and shower, and drying floors promptly after use are effective ways to enhance bathroom safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Improper_Footwear_Choices\"><\/span>3. Improper Footwear Choices<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_4nXeeFS8PJnp3LHrVwES7MtGfWQlCZb0QmykD-JanZJzUKXrtCSIbuQ0WbNII6PnZGdJvAiZ9jrFSwxSXShdcAxNK813_7sPt0HmWghsmGrEzhiQOYpdcTgUBWLyWy8gmbmuLUEBPeIw0Ph1UB9apnaiY5rX8CS6cz6PBgQCq1w?key=v8DAt4HAIFntrpus-EfkmQ\" 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\">The shoes seniors wear can significantly impact their safety. Footwear that lacks grip or support increases the risk of falls, particularly on smooth surfaces.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors should choose shoes with slip-resistant soles and adequate support to remain steady while walking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Cluttered_Walkways\"><\/span>4. Cluttered Walkways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everyday objects like cords, shoes, or small pieces of furniture can obstruct a senior\u2019s walking path. These obstacles create unnecessary hazards that may lead to falls.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping walkways clear and organizing spaces to eliminate clutter will help reduce risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Poor_Lighting_in_Key_Areas\"><\/span>5. Poor Lighting in Key Areas<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dimly lit rooms and hallways make it harder to spot obstacles or navigate safely, particularly at night.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brightening these areas with stronger bulbs, placing nightlights along commonly used paths, and adding motion-sensor lights in bathrooms or entryways can improve visibility and help prevent accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Unstable_Furniture\"><\/span>6. Unstable Furniture<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_4nXfZCUEtUHZdiGmLyH6bPsOFloy1tJ8NgHu8RCSJvtLY1OnTtI4noBlD2d9EzbLsQwdMRFqlC8ASjAwlVRo80UBRmR0ayi533PgOedOu3zOr8kuqKxggiUPEfjrHbbffradOCHhM8hn-uI3TrSATVbVVd-mRus1EtR8P0oA3?key=v8DAt4HAIFntrpus-EfkmQ\" alt=\"This image depicts a senior on the ground with a foot injury after falling due to unstable furniture\" title=\"senior-fallen-ground-foot-injury-unstable-furniture\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Furniture that isn\u2019t sturdy enough to lean on or support weight can easily cause a fall.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wobbly tables, chairs, or shelves should be avoided or repaired. Installing grab bars in key areas for additional support is a safer alternative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Outdoor_Hazards\"><\/span>7. Outdoor Hazards<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outdoor spaces can present numerous fall risks for seniors, such as uneven sidewalks, wet leaves, and icy conditions in colder weather. Clearing outdoor pathways regularly and taking precautions, such as wearing appropriate footwear, can make outdoor spaces safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Improper_Use_of_Mobility_Aids\"><\/span>8. Improper Use of Mobility Aids<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Walkers and canes are essential tools for many seniors, but improper use can lead to falls.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ensuring that mobility aids are correctly fitted and used properly is critical. Professional guidance on how to use these devices can prevent unnecessary accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Medication_Side_Effects\"><\/span>9. Medication Side Effects<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_4nXfam_JA2ADyoWOvPUMQGoZbd-mnmRtDL8qlemvwSxEl43xF36nTPfoI0jlhyBf74LQpvDHdGpa2NX76-Qn4UfojSLFW819kPkjrqR8GjyPVKvbpkQU_b1djUxqU3sK9VqZi0ymjBWx21uDKpVnctP64ceNLFzUKrA2fJA-6Eg?key=v8DAt4HAIFntrpus-EfkmQ\" alt=\"This image depicts a senior checking a vial of medicine\" title=\"senior-checking-vial-medicine\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/resources\/keeping-medications-organized\/\">medications<\/a> can cause dizziness, fatigue, or balance problems, making falls more likely.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seniors should have regular medication reviews with their healthcare provider to address any side effects that could increase the risk of falling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Safety_Precautions_are_Important_for_Seniors\"><\/span>Why Safety Precautions are Important for Seniors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Falls remain the leading cause of injury among seniors, often leading to hospital stays, rehabilitation, and long-term complications.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The aftermath of a fall can be life-altering for seniors, both physically and emotionally. Preventing falls is crucial to ensure their overall well-being and proactive steps can protect their independence and boost their confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:25px\">Physical Consequences of Falls<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Falls frequently lead to severe injuries like <strong>fractures, especially in the hips, wrists, and spine<\/strong>. These injuries often require surgery and lengthy recovery periods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>After a fall, seniors may experience <strong>decreased mobility<\/strong>, either due to the injury itself or fear of falling again. This limitation can drastically affect daily activities, leading to a loss of independence.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Even after recovery, seniors might suffer from <strong>chronic pain<\/strong>, particularly if the fall caused joint or bone damage. Pain management can become a significant part of their daily routine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:25px\">Why Preventive Measures are Critical<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>By taking preventive actions like eliminating hazards in the home, seniors can <strong>maintain their independence longer<\/strong>, allowing them to perform daily tasks without constant fear of injury.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Proactive safety measures reduce the risk of falls and <strong>contribute to a higher quality of life<\/strong>, as seniors feel safer and more secure in their surroundings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hospitalizations, surgeries, and rehabilitation due to falls can lead to high healthcare costs. Preventing falls <strong>reduces the likelihood of these costly interventions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Family members can feel more at ease knowing their loved one\u2019s home environment is safe. This <strong>peace of mind<\/strong> is invaluable for <strong>both seniors and their families<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Always_Best_Care_of_Denver_Can_Help\"><\/span>How Always Best Care of Denver Can Help<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always Best Care of Denver is dedicated to providing seniors with the support they need to maintain a safe home environment. Our caregivers are trained to identify fall risks in the home and assist with the implementation of preventative measures. From conducting home safety assessments to offering personalized care plans, our goal is to keep seniors safe and independent for as long as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to creating safer living spaces, Always Best Care of Denver offers assistance with daily tasks that may become challenging due to mobility or health concerns. This support, paired with a focus on fall prevention, helps seniors remain confident in their homes while minimizing the risk of accidents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com\/docsz\/AD_4nXfn7QZ6ZkCMVwKAUQ2vAjZcljquju2KX0X5N0k8JPaYRu94UjHy_yVmbbM9bBz-Hv8QJUYKz_0xJgc_iSmkkSyivOUkgiYxd54a7R1Kk6hFYGFMzsEG2Xz2ECGLG7RWbvZZCbbR6jovEc_S3f0lSuE3tKtN44nY9dExD0HW?key=v8DAt4HAIFntrpus-EfkmQ\" alt=\"This image depicts a caregiver helping a senior woman stand up while using a walker\" title=\"caregiver-help-senior-woman-stand-up\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:30px\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_the_Next_Step_in_Protecting_Your_Loved_Ones_Safety_with_Always_Best_Care_of_Denver\"><\/span>Take the Next Step in Protecting Your Loved One\u2019s Safety with Always Best Care of Denver!<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ensuring your senior loved one\u2019s safety at home is crucial for their health and well-being. At Always Best Care of Denver, we provide personalized fall prevention and home safety care plans. Our team of trained caregivers is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive environment where seniors can thrive independently.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Always Best Care of Denver<\/a> at <a href=\"tel:(720) 310-6998\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(720) 310-6998<\/a> to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From poor lighting to dehydration, learn the nine fall risks threatening seniors&#8217; safety and discover practical solutions to create a safer living environment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":16922,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[234,162,166,169],"tags":[418,419,420,421,422,423],"class_list":["post-16668","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-senior-care","category-senior-health","category-tips","category-aging-well"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16668","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16668"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16668\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16671,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16668\/revisions\/16671"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16922"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16668"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16668"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16668"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}