Fall Prevention 101: A Guide for Seniors & Families

Author

ComForCare Home Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: ComForCare Home Care

Posted on

Nov 27, 2023

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro

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!

Why Fall Prevention Matters

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.

Most Common Risk Factors for a Fall

  • Medications: Some medications or combinations of medications can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and delayed reaction times as side effects. 
  • Cognitive impairments: Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can slow down reaction times or make it easy to become distracted and overlook a fall risk.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Many older adults don’t get enough protein or vitamin D in their diets, leading to muscle loss and weakness that increases the risk of falling.
  • Lower body weakness: Many health conditions and simply aging itself can lead to weakness in the lower body or difficulties with walking and balance. 
  • Health care issues: blood pressure that is too low or too high, vision impairments, and even podiatric issues can all contribute to falls.

What Can Seniors Do to Prevent Falls?

For optimized comfort and safety at your or your loved one’s home, use these steps to prevent falls!

Home Safety Interventions

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:

  • Fixing any broken or uneven steps & flooring
  • Moving furniture so loved ones using an assistive device like a cane or walker can easily navigate around it
  • Installing grab bars in bathrooms

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. 

Exercises for Balance & Strength

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!

Improve Awareness & Reduce the Fear

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.

Consider In-Home Care

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.

Schedule a Home Safety Evaluation with ComForCare

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!

Contact ComForCare to Be Matched with Your Perfect Caregiver call today, 720-575-5576.


Other Articles You May Like

Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients

Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time.  If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.                                          

Preparing Your Loved Ones Home for Sale

Selling a home that has been lived in for many years can be a difficult process whether a loved one has passed or is just moving into a nursing home.  Many memories have been made that hold a multitude of emotions and it is hard to let it all go.  Here are a few steps to help ease the stress of preparing your loved ones home for sale.Be PatientIf time isnt of the essence put a 60-90 day freeze on all decision making.  During that time leave everything in the home as-is except for expiring food, medicines, and anything else that could leave a bad odor.  This hold-over time period will give friends and family time to grieve, time to process the options, and time to remember the home exactly how it was while your loved one still lived there.Get Expert HelpA lawyer should be one of your first calls as they can help get the necessary paperwork in order such as a power of attorney and will.  They can also help you navigate through probate.  Seeking legal advice about selling a home is always advised as it can greatly affect the title of the home.Next, a realtor will be able to talk about all of your options when it comes to selling. Since a realtor doesnt have any emotional attachment to the house, they will be able to be matter of fact and tell you the current market value of the home.  A realtor will also let you know which items should be updated to get the most money out of the house.DeclutterIt can be difficult to let things go, but a house must be de-personalized in order to sell for top dollar. If the process is too difficult or daunting to do on your own, you might consider hiring an estate sale company to host an estate sale. If this is the route you go, it is best to step away from the process and let the professionals do their job.If you prefer to go through items yourself, consider hiring an appraiser or specialist to look at antiques to find out their true value.  Less valuable items can be donated so you know they are going to a good home. Non-profit businesses that are usually seeking donations include Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity Restores.Update/RepairsA lived-in home will have signs of wear & tear.  At a minimum fix cracked tiles, patch holes in walls, give the home a coat of fresh neutral paint, replace burned out lightbulbs, and remove curtains to let the most light in. You might also consider installing new carpet and flooring.To get the most money out of the home, consider doing a kitchen and bathroom remodel as those spaces tend to be the biggest selling points of a house. If you dont have time for a major renovation you can update simple items such as replacing light fixtures, faucets, and hinges. In the bathrooms add a few stacked washcloths tied with a ribbon, add lightly scented candles, and buy matching bathmats & towels in a light green, blue or white tone.Your realtor might also suggest hiring a professional stager, who will bring in contemporary furniture to enhance the homes attractiveness to potential buyers.Clean, Clean, CleanOne of the last steps inside the home is to give it a good cleaning.  If you dont mind putting in the elbow grease, then begin with washing the windows, vacuuming, dusting, wiping down all surfaces, and polishing appliances. You can also consider hiring a cleaning company, who can come in and make the home sparkle in just a few hours.Curb AppealLastly, spruce up the landscaping and front entrance of the home which might have become neglected.  Trim shrubs, add flowers, mow the lawn, give the front door a fresh coat of paint, and paint faded trim.  In addition, certain buyers loan types such as FHA & VA will require rotted deck boards be replaced, that peeling paint is fixed, and any broken windows be repaired.If you are ready to take the next step in selling, call lMike Lies with Gold Compass Real Estate at 303-325-5690.

Resources Every Family Caregiver Should Know About

Caring for a loved one can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with its challenges. Family caregivers often wear multiple hats, juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. Knowing where to turn for help can make all the difference in managing the stress and ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care. Here are some essential resources every family caregiver should be aware of:Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)AAAs provide a wealth of information and services tailored to seniors and their caregivers. From meal delivery and transportation to caregiver training and respite care programs, these agencies are a critical first step for many caregivers. You can find your local AAA through the Eldercare Locator.Support GroupsCaregiving can feel isolating, but youre not alone. Support groupsboth in-person and onlineconnect you with others who understand your journey. Platforms like Family Caregiver Alliance or local support groups can offer emotional support, practical tips, and a sense of community.Respite Care ServicesTaking care of yourself is vital to being an effective caregiver. Respite care offers short-term relief by providing professional caregiving services, either at home or in a care facility. Check with local senior care providers, such as our team at Elderlink Home Care, Inc., to learn more about these options.Financial Assistance ProgramsThe costs of caregiving can add up quickly. Programs like Medicaid Waivers, Veterans Aid and Attendance benefits, and local state assistance programs can provide financial relief. Additionally, many states offer stipends or tax credits for family caregivers.Technology Tools for CaregivingModern technology has made caregiving more manageable. Apps like CaringBridge and CareZone help you organize medical records, schedules, and communication with other family members. Medication reminder tools and wearable devices can also provide peace of mind.Caregiver Education and TrainingBecoming a caregiver often requires learning new skills. Organizations like the Alzheimers Association and AARP offer online courses, workshops, and guides to help you handle medical tasks, improve communication, and navigate the complexities of caregiving.Professional Home Care ServicesSometimes, partnering with a professional caregiver can provide the support you need. Home care services like those offered by Elderlink Home Care, Inc. allow your loved one to remain in the comfort of their home while receiving expert assistance with daily activities, personal care, and companionship.Legal and Financial Planning ResourcesHaving the proper legal and financial documents in place is crucial. Organizations like Legal Aid and National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can guide you in preparing essential documents, such as powers of attorney and advanced directives, ensuring your loved ones wishes are honored.Caregiver Counseling ServicesThe emotional toll of caregiving is real. Many mental health professionals specialize in helping caregivers navigate stress, grief, and burnout. Look for local therapists or online counseling services to prioritize your mental health.Meals on Wheels and Nutrition ServicesEnsuring your loved one eats well is a top priority. Programs like Meals on Wheels provide healthy, affordable meals delivered right to their door. Many community centers and churches also offer meal services for seniors.Final ThoughtsBeing a family caregiver is no small task, but you dont have to go it alone. By tapping into these resources, you can find the support you need to provide the best care possible for your loved one while maintaining your own well-being.At Elderlink Home Care, Inc., were here to help. Whether you need professional caregiving services or advice on navigating the complexities of senior care, feel free to contact us for guidance and support.Remember: Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your loved one. Dont hesitate to reach out for helpits a sign of strength, not weakness!Question, please call us at 303-734-0641.

Local Services By This Author

ComForCare Home Care - Denver South

Non-Medical 1101 West Mineral Avenue, Littleton, Colorado, 80120

ComForCare South Denver is a leading provider of non-medical home care services, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals needing assistance in the comfort of their own homes. With over 15 years of experience in the Denver area, we have built a strong reputation for compassionate, professional, and reliable care that allows our clients to maintain their independence while receiving the support they need.Our non-medical home care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you require a brief two-hour shift for personal care, such as a shower visit, or around-the-clock 24/7 assistance, our highly trained and experienced caregivers are ready to provide exceptional support. We offer personalized care plans that are designed to address a wide range of needs, from daily companionship and meal preparation to mobility assistance and respite care for family caregivers.Comprehensive Non-Medical Home Care ServicesAt ComForCare, we understand that every client has different needs, and we take a personalized approach to home care. Our comprehensive services include:Personal Care Assistance: Our caregivers provide dignified assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and hygiene care.Companionship and Emotional Support: Social interaction is vital for emotional well-being. Our caregivers engage clients in meaningful conversations, activities, and outings to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.Meal Preparation and Nutrition Support: We ensure that clients receive balanced, nutritious meals that align with their dietary preferences and medical requirements.Medication Reminders: While we do not administer medications, our caregivers provide timely reminders to ensure adherence to prescribed medication schedules.Mobility Assistance and Fall Prevention: Safety is a priority, and we assist clients with mobility, transfers, and positioning to prevent falls and maintain independence.Light Housekeeping and Laundry: We help maintain a clean and organized living space by assisting with tasks such as vacuuming, dusting, laundry, and general tidying up.Transportation and Errands: Our caregivers provide safe transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and social engagements to keep clients active and connected to the community.Respite Care for Family Caregivers: We offer temporary relief for family caregivers, allowing them to take a break while ensuring their loved one receives compassionate care.Experienced and Compassionate CaregiversAt ComForCare, our caregivers are the heart of our home care services. We carefully select, train, and match our caregivers to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our team members are dedicated, compassionate, and committed to providing the highest standard of care. Each caregiver undergoes rigorous background checks, ongoing training, and skill development to ensure the best possible support for our clients.Flexible Care Plans and 24/7 SupportWe understand that care needs can change over time, which is why we offer flexible care plans that can be adjusted as needed. Whether a client requires short-term assistance during recovery or long-term care for chronic conditions, we work closely with families to create customized plans that evolve with their needs. Our office staff is available 24/7 to provide support, answer questions, and make adjustments to care schedules as necessary.Payment Options and Insurance CoverageComForCare  is a private-pay home care provider, accepting a variety of payment options to accommodate our clients' financial needs. We accept private pay, most Long-Term Care Insurance policies, and are VA-approved, helping veterans access the care they deserve.Choosing a home care provider is an important decision, and ComForCare South Denver stands out for the following reasons:Over 15 Years of Experience: We have a long-standing reputation for excellence in home care services within the Denver community.Personalized Care Plans: Every client receives a tailored care plan designed to meet their specific needs and preferences.Highly Trained Caregivers: Our compassionate and skilled caregivers are dedicated to providing exceptional service.24/7 Availability: We offer around-the-clock support and communication to ensure peace of mind for our clients and their families.Commitment to Client Satisfaction: We prioritize client happiness and well-being, ensuring the right caregiver match for each individual.At ComForCare, we are committed to making life easier for seniors and individuals in need of support. Whether you need assistance for just a few hours a week or continuous care, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our non-medical home care services and discover how we can provide peace of mind. 

ComForCare Home Care

Home Health 1101 West Mineral Avenue, Littleton, Colorado, 80120

ComForCare is a leading private-pay home health 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.