Did you know that falls are reported to be the leading cause of injury-related deaths for adults aged 65 and older? According to Injury Facts 2016, a statistical report about unintentional injuries created by the National Safety Council, this is quite an alarming fact. The Centers For Disease Control also contributes that more than 250,000 hip fractures are reported almost every year, mostly due to falls in the home. And sadly, approximately 25,500 of our older adults die from unintentional falls.
With numbers at alarming rates such as these, there are certainly ways in which Mom’s Home Care can help you and your family members identify risks in the home and eliminate them to keep hazardous conditions to a minimum. Our caregiver will help maintain the quality of life for those wishing to remain in their homes and help you be as comfortable and happy as possible.
Although falls can happen anywhere for the older adult, most happen inside of the home. Hazardous conditions can quickly accumulate, especially when the elderly adult lacks the mobility they once had to take care of tasks around the home. Having a caregiver to come over and evaluate the home from an outside point of view is an excellent start. Having a fresh pair of eyes to scan the residence for potential risks can prove to be invaluable. Some older adults may not be open to the idea of an outsider's advice for their home; even their own children. Be ready for resistance in some cases. Role reversal can be hard for older adults, but remind them of how much you care for and love them, and how you want them to be safe. More often than not, with your help, they may discover that you have made their lives easier putting the correct precautions in place.
When Mom’s Home Care evaluates your home, we look for things such as poor lighting, loose rugs, uneven floor surfaces, clutter, and unclear walkways. We spot unsafe electrical cords, unsafe throw rugs, and secure carpets to the floor or put non-slip adhesive on stairways. Our staff makes sure all railings are tightly secured, and are accessible all through the residence where needed. For bathrooms, we check that you have non-skid mats or appliqués in safe baths and showers that are easily accessible. We ensure there are grab bars in the tub, shower, and next to the toilet. An essential element is adequate lighting in every hallway and stairway, as well as in every room. We advise that frequently used items by the loved one should be accessible. Ladders and stepstools should never have to be used. And as a precaution, always have a walker or cane handy, to aid in stability.
One of the most important things the older adult can do for themselves is to keep mobile. Lack of activity can weaken muscles and decrease muscle tone leading to decreased balance and increasing the chances of a fall. Along with exercise, following up with doctors appointments and regularly monitoring medications to prevent dizziness is a must. Regular eye exams are also very important for maintaining safe independence. Help your loved one keep a master schedule of all doctor appointments, medications, and daily activities. Forgetfulness is common in the aging, and having a reminder schedule can keep down anxiety and rushing when forgetting life's events. On a final note, it is also encouraged for older adults to have a medical alert necklace or bracelet.
Overall, helping our older adults to identify potential safety risks and creating an environment that allows them to live as independently and as safely as possible can give all those around them better peace of mind.
