Slips and falls are one of the main reasons why older adults receive hospitalization. As people age, their bones become brittle and more susceptible to breaks and fractures. No truer is this then when it comes to the hips, which experience a lack of calcium and bone density due to the aging process. While this is truly sad, it is a fact of life for many older adults and caregivers. With thousands of new cases each year, the medical community continues to emphasize prevention techniques for seniors and those taking care of them in their golden years.

Prevention Tips 101

According to healthcare professionals, there are several ways to prevent slips and falls for older adults. For one, caregivers should always be by their side – especially when they are being mobile. This includes holding their arms when they need to use the restroom, or simply moving from one room to another. Seniors that use canes and supports should always keep them in arm’s reach. According to recent statistics, over 32% of falls in 2015 occurred due to canes being out of reach. For caregivers, this is an alarming fact and an eye-opener for those caring for elderly parents, siblings, loved ones or friends. Other preventative techniques include but are not limited to:

  • Limiting mobility – seniors should never attempt to go anywhere in the house without proper supervision by caregivers or loved ones. While this may seem restrictive, it is better to be safe than sorry.
  • Cleaning up spills – one of the main reasons seniors fall is due to wet bathroom and kitchen floors. No truer is this then after a bath or shower – and as a result –loved ones must clean up any water or spilled drinks to ensure safe and dry environment for older adults.
  • Carpeting is Key – the more carpeting and rugs – the better. Studies have shown that homes with wall-to-wall carpeting or rugs are safer for seniors and older adults. In the sad event of a fall, seniors may prevent broken bones since padding can absorb falls and other mishaps.
  • Proper footwear – wearing the right shoes is paramount for seniors. In fact, they must avoid slippers or other footwear that are too rubbery or bendable. Help your loved one find a sturdy yet comfortable pair of shoes he or she can wear around the house. This will prevent falls and may even help them improve overall posture and strides in their steps.

As your premier care-giving agency, we are always committed to helping families protect their senior members and loved ones. As part of our weekly blog series, we deliver insightful information and tips on making the lives of seniors safer and more enjoyable. Our parents, grandparents, and senior loved ones and friends mean the world to us. By implementing a few simply preventative steps and techniques, we can truly protect their lives and health during these golden years.