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Millions of older people fall each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While younger people may not think much of a simple household trip, falls are much more serious than many realize. Their aftermath can drastically alter a person’s quality of life, putting their physical and mental health at risk. That’s why fall prevention is so critically important.
At ComForCare, our mission is to help older adults live at home safely and confidently for as long as possible. We work alongside families, providing not only expert care but also educational resources to support healthy relationships and healthy families. Let’s take a look at why fall prevention matters, how to recognize risk factors, and what you can do to prevent falls!
While not every fall results in a serious injury, one in five does—and the consequences can be life-altering. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries and hip fractures, and they account for 3 million emergency department visits each year. And while it’s painful to think about, the CDC estimates that by 2030, falls could cause dozens of deaths per day.
Even if the fall itself doesn’t result in death, the complications can be devastating. Seniors may experience severely limited mobility and cognitive function, restricting their activities, leading to physical decline and even depression and social isolation. All of these outcomes are linked to a shorter lifespan.
For optimized comfort and safety at your or your loved one’s home, use these steps to prevent falls!
Fall-proofing your home is one of the most important interventions you can make. To start, remove any throw rugs, floor clutter, or electrical cords that can be tripped over. Additional changes to consider include:
For additional steps, download our fall risk reduction guide! To fully safeguard your loved one and account for their needs, you may also consider a personalized fall risk assessment.
In some cases, older adults may need the help of a physical therapist or occupational therapist to regain their strength and balance. But all seniors can benefit from exercises to reduce the risk of falls. Even simple exercises can help!
One of the easiest leg-strengthening exercises is the calf raise. From a standing position, rise up on your toes, keeping your heels above the ground. Then, slowly return to your normal position. Try doing three sets of ten calf raises with one to three minutes of rest in between. Call in a friend or family member to help with balance!
Fall risk awareness sits at the middle of a spectrum. On one hand, some people don’t realize that falls aren’t a normal part of aging and therefore don’t understand their risk factors. On the other, some people become afraid, reducing or restricting healthy activities out of a fear of falling.
Fall risk management programs like Gaitway are designed to help older adults overcome those fears and minimize their risks. Gaitway helps people view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, and take manageable steps to reduce their fall risks at home.
If your loved one has one or more fall risk factors or has fallen in the past, it may be time to consider in-home care. ComForCare’s caregivers are trained in all aspects of fall prevention, performing safety assessments and screenings, recommending adjustments to the home environment, and so much more.
Our caregivers understand senior nutrition and can prepare meals to support their vitamin, mineral, protein, and hydration goals. They can provide mobility assistance to boost confidence and make getting around easier. They can manage medications and coordinate with healthcare providers. And above all, they’re an additional resource for families supporting elderly loved ones, establishing open lines of communication about fall fears and concerns.
Being an active fall manager for a loved one is an important role. But it can be a lot to manage, and important things easily go unmanaged or unnoticed. If you’re ready for a partner to close the gaps and provide an expert perspective, choose ComForCare.
We provide in-home care services to help seniors age comfortably and safely at home. We’ll match your family member with a caregiver ideally suited to their preferences, personality, and needs so you can rest assured that they’re receiving the best assistance possible.
Schedule a home safety evaluation with ComForCare today to protect your loved one and support their needs!
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, its a beautiful reminder that autumn is upon us. While the fall season brings cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, it also presents unique challenges, especially for seniors. With slippery leaves, shorter days, and the onset of colder weather, its crucial to take steps to ensure your home is as safe as possible. Here are some essential fall prevention safety tips to help create a secure home environment this autumn.1. Keep Walkways Clear of Leaves and DebrisFallen leaves can be beautiful, but when they accumulate on walkways, they can become slippery, especially when wet. Regularly rake and clear paths, driveways, and steps to prevent slips and falls.2. Improve Outdoor LightingAs daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more important than ever. Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and consider adding motion-sensor lights around entrances and walkways. This not only helps prevent falls but also enhances security around your home.3. Install Grab Bars and HandrailsBathrooms and staircases are common areas where falls occur. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along stairs can provide the extra support needed to prevent accidents. Ensure these are securely attached and regularly check them for stability.4. Use Non-Slip Mats and RugsSlippery floors can be hazardous, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Place non-slip mats in these areas and secure rugs with non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls.5. Declutter and OrganizeCluttered spaces can be a tripping hazard. Take the time to declutter your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Ensure that cords, shoes, and other obstacles are stored away properly. A tidy home is not only more comfortable but also safer.6. Schedule a Heating System CheckAs temperatures drop, you'll likely be using your heating system more frequently. Before the cold fully sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's working safely and efficiently. A well-maintained system can prevent accidents and keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter.7. Check Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsWith the increased use of heating systems, its important to ensure that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Test them monthly, replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to newer models if your devices are outdated.8. Consider a Free Senior Home Safety AssessmentFor seniors, creating a safe home environment is essential. TruBlue offers a Free Senior Home Safety Assessment to help identify potential hazards and recommend modifications to enhance safety. Our certified Senior Safety Specialists can provide personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of seniors, allowing them to age in place safely.Fall is a season of change, and its the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure. By following these fall prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a more comfortable living environment. Whether its clearing walkways, improving lighting, or installing safety features like grab bars, each small action can make a big difference.At TruBlue, were committed to helping you maintain a safe and comfortable home. Contact us today to schedule your Free Senior Home Safety Assessment and take the first step towards a safer autumn. Together, we can ensure that you or your loved ones can enjoy the beauty of the season without worry.
As the summer heat intensifies across the country, dehydration becomes a common and potentially dangerous concern. This condition can have severe implications, particularly for seniors who are more vulnerable due to several physiological factors. Seniors face unique challenges, especially when it comes to the impact of their medication on hydration. Why Are Seniors More Prone to Dehydration?Seniors are at an increased risk for dehydration for several reasons: Reduced Thirst Signal: As people age, their bodies lose their ability to recognize thirst, making it harder to drink fluids. Lower Body Water Volume: Older adults generally have a lower total volume of body water, meaning they have less fluid to lose before dehydration sets in. Kidney Function Decline: Kidneys become less efficient at conserving water with age, further contributing to fluid loss. Chronic Illnesses: Conditions such as diabetes can worsen the risk of dehydration since they affect the body's ability to control water. In addition to these factors, medication plays a significant role in influencing fluid balance in seniors.The Impact of Medication on DehydrationAs a clinical pharmacist, I've seen firsthand how medications can contribute to dehydration, especially in older adults. One of my clients, an active senior, nearly passed out while cycling in the summer. As it turned out, he was on a diuretic medication, commonly referred to as a "water pill." Diuretics are a class of drugs that increase urination, leading to reduced fluid levels in the body. These medications, often prescribed for conditions like hypertension and heart failure, can inadvertently lead to dehydration if fluid intake isn't carefully managed. Some commonly used diuretics include bumetanide, chlorothiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide, and furosemide (Lasix). But diuretics aren't the only medications that can cause dehydration. Other drugs like these can also affect your body's water balance. Antihistamines: Often used for allergies, these can cause dry mouth and reduced fluid intake. Blood Pressure Medications: Certain blood pressure medications can increase urine output. Laxatives: They can cause fluid loss through increased bowel movements. Chemotherapies: These treatments often lead to side effects like vomiting and diarrhea, contributing to dehydration.Managing Dehydration RisksIt's important to be aware of dehydration risks, particularly for those taking medications that impact fluid balance. Regardless of whether one feels thirsty, its important to drink water throughout the day. Staying alert to the signs of dehydrationsuch as increased thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, fatigue, and dizzinesscan also help address the issue early. These symptoms are early warning signs that the body may need more fluids. Finally, anyone concerned about dehydration should consult a healthcare provider. They can adjust medication and advise seniors on managing fluid intake to prevent dehydration. At Deeper Dive Horizons, one of my priorities is to guide you and your loved ones through the complexities of medication management to improve your well-being. With over 22 years of experience, my goal is to dive deeply into your health and ensure you maintain a balanced and healthy life, even in challenging conditions like extreme heat. Schedule a consultation today to get started 888-984-8895.
Safeguarding Lives in Every SeasonEvery year, on the first day of autumn, communities across the nation come together to observe Fall Prevention Awareness Day. This important day serves as a reminder of the significant impact falls can have on individuals and the collective effort needed to prevent them. As we step into the season of changing leaves and cooler temperatures, it's crucial to raise awareness about fall prevention and prioritize safety for ourselves and our loved ones.A Silent ThreatFalls are a leading cause of injuries among older adults, often resulting in fractures, hospitalizations, and a decline in overall quality of life. However, falls can affect people of all ages, so it's vital to address this issue comprehensively. The consequences of falls go far beyond physical injuries; they can also have emotional and financial repercussions for individuals and their families.Understanding the Impact of FallsPhysical Consequences: Falls can lead to a wide range of physical injuries, including fractures, sprains, and head trauma. These injuries can result in prolonged pain, limited mobility, and a significant loss of independence. For older adults, in particular, a fall can mark the beginning of a decline in health.Emotional Toll: The emotional toll of a fall should not be underestimated. The fear of falling again can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Many individuals who have experienced a fall become hesitant to engage in physical activities they once enjoyed, further compromising their physical and mental well-being.Financial Burden: The financial burden of falls is substantial. Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and potential long-term care expenses can put a strain on individuals and families. In some cases, these financial challenges can jeopardize retirement savings and financial security.The STEADI Initiative:Screen - Assess - InterveneThe CDC STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries) initiative is a comprehensive approach developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help healthcare providers and patients address fall prevention in older adults. Falls are a common and serious issue among older adults, and the STEADI initiative provides tools and resources to reduce the risk of falls and related injuries. Here are some key components of the STEADI program for adult fall prevention:Screening: Healthcare providers are encouraged to use standardized fall risk assessment tools, such as the "Steady Steps" tool, to identify patients that are at risk of falling. These screening tools help determine an individual's risk factors for falling. When screening, ask questions such as; Have you fallen in the past year? Do you feel unsteady when standing or walking? Are you worried about falling? A yes to any of these questions indicates that a patient has an increased risk in falling. Once the screening process is complete, healthcare providers can now begin to assess the situation. Assessment: For patients identified as being at risk, healthcare providers conduct a more comprehensive fall risk assessment. This assessment includes a review of medications, medical conditions, and mobility issues that may contribute to falls. Home hazards are some of the biggest issues with adult falls. Asking detailed questions can be very important in this case. Along with home hazards, here are some additional indicators of an increased fall risk: poor footwear, impaired vision and cognitive ability. Intervention: Based on the assessment results, healthcare providers can develop personalized fall prevention plans for their patients. These plans may include recommendations for exercise programs, medication adjustments, vision assessments, and home modifications.Raising Awareness: Fall Prevention StrategiesKnow the Risk Factors: Understanding the risk factors associated with falls is the first step in prevention. These factors include age, muscle weakness, balance issues, medications, chronic health conditions, vision problems, and environmental hazards.Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility. Exercise programs like tai chi and yoga are particularly effective in preventing falls among older adults.Medication Management: It's essential to review medications with healthcare professionals regularly. Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, increasing the risk of falls.Vision Care: Regular eye check-ups are crucial, as vision problems can contribute to falls. Correcting vision impairments and ensuring adequate lighting in the home can make a significant difference.Home Safety: Eliminating tripping hazards in the home, such as loose rugs and clutter, is essential. Installing handrails, grab bars, and adequate lighting can enhance safety.Footwear: Wearing proper footwear with non-slip soles and good support is essential for stability.Regular Health Check-ups: Routine health check-ups can help identify and address underlying health issues that may increase the risk of falls.Promoting Fall Prevention Awareness Year-RoundWhile Fall Prevention Awareness Day is an important annual event, it's crucial to emphasize fall prevention year-round. Education and awareness campaigns should continue to remind people of the risks and strategies for prevention.Additionally, healthcare providers, community organizations, and families can work together to support individuals at risk of falls. This might involve home assessments, personalized exercise programs, and ongoing monitoring of medication use.As we embrace the arrival of autumn, let's also embrace the idea of falling for safety. Falls are a significant threat to individuals' well-being and the healthcare system as a whole. By raising awareness, identifying risks, and taking proactive measures, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of falls. Fall prevention should be a priority not just on Fall Prevention Awareness Day but throughout the year. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding lives and promoting safety in every season.Please remember to be SAFE!S - Screen for factors that may increase fall risk. A - Assess the patient to best issues that can contribute to falls.F - Formulate the patients fall prevention plan.E - Educate the patient and caregiver about medical conditions and mobility issues that lead to high risk falls.
ComForCare is a leading private-pay home health provider in the Denver area, serving families for over 10 years. We are committed to providing excellent service to our clients through caring staff. Whether you just need a 2 hour shift one day a week (most commonly used as a shower shift) or 24/7 fully assisted care, we can provide quality caregivers to assist you. Our clients have 24/7 access to our office staff. We don't rest until our clients are thrilled with the individual who comes to their home, and our clients' families have peace of mind that their loved-one is well taken care of. We accept private pay, most Long Term Care Insurances, and are VA approved.
ComForCare is a leading private-pay home care provider in the Denver area, serving families for over 15 years. We are committed to providing excellent service to our clients through caring staff. Whether you just need a 2 hour shift one day a week (most commonly used as a shower shift) or 24/7 fully assisted care, we can provide quality caregivers to assist you. Our clients have 24/7 access to our office staff. We don't rest until our clients are thrilled with the individual who comes to their home, and our clients' families have peace of mind that their loved-one is well taken care of. We accept private pay, most Long Term Care Insurances, and are VA approved.