5 Ways To Reduce the Risk of Falls in Seniors

Falling Injuries can seriously affect seniors’ lives and their ability to live independently and risk-free.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),

“About 36 million falls occur annually among older adults, and nearly three million older adults are treated in the emergency room for fall injuries.”

Taking steps to prevent falls can reduce the risk of injury from these situations. There are 5 ways seniors can become proactive and keep themselves safer at home or in the community (according to the elderly care in East Bay).

• Exercising daily
• Wear proper footwear
• Use Adaptive Equipment
• Minimize Hazards
• Remain In Good Health
  

1. Exercising Daily
   Exercising strengthens muscles and joints, improves balance and coordination, and decreases the risk of falling. Working with a physical therapist can help seniors build essential skills and work on areas where they may have weaknesses. Many activities can be done at home, needing lesser or no equipment. Even going for regular walks and engaging in activities such as yoga can help.
   
2. Wear Proper Footwear
   Loose or ill-fitting footwear can become a risk factor for falls. Shuffling in slippers, especially slide-on ones, can quickly cause tripping or losing balance if a slipper falls off. Seniors should aim to buy correctly fitting sturdy shoes (neither too big nor too small) with traction-providing soles.
   
3. Use Adaptive Equipment
   Seniors should use canes or walkers (as necessary) to help with balance. Check for its height adjustments and whether you can use it.
   
   Install grab bars in the bathroom to help get in and out of the shower or transition between standing and sitting on the toilet. Also, use non-slip mats, especially around water, and install handrails along stairs but make sure they are attached securely and wobble-free.
   
4. Minimize Hazards
   Remove rugs and ensure they are secured and will not slip or roll up on the floor. The edges of rugs and transitions between different flooring can be major trip and fall hazards.
   
   Try to arrange furniture for wide walkways, and encourage seniors to sit in sturdy pieces that will not rock or fall over if they lean on them to stand up or sit down. Also, clear any clutter on the floor and secure cords out of the way.
   
5. Remain In Good Health
   Health issues can also increase the falling risks. Encourage seniors to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and stay on top of medications to manage conditions such as blood pressure, blood sugar, or heart rate. When seniors aren’t feeling their best, it can affect their balance, coordination, judgment, and more.
   

How Can In-Home Care Help?

Having a robust support system can also help seniors reduce their risk of falls or other situations that could be potentially dangerous. An in-home caregiver can provide appropriate assistance and supervision to keep seniors safer while aging in place.

In addition, Always Best Care East Bay offers the Balance Tracking System to help determine fall risk. Learn more about our services like in-home, senior care, and support by contacting us at (925) 210-0323 to schedule a free consultation.