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The first line of defense is your doctor. Your healthcare provider can help determine your risk level for senior falling based on your health conditions, medications, and history of injuries. For example, if you are noticing side effects like dizziness or drowsiness from a new medication, your doctor may switch your prescription. Or if you have joint pain or muscle weakness from a medical condition, your doctor may be able to recommend physical therapy or exercises to help strengthen your muscles.
There are a lot of medical conditions that can increase your risk of a fall, so preventing falls in elderly isn’t always straightforward. For example, even incontinence can increase the risk of senior falling if trying to rush to the bathroom. That’s why it’s so important to chat with your doctor about all your medical conditions and concerns, not just the obvious ones.
You should also consider getting your eyes and ears checked. Vision and hearing changes are leading causes of senior falling.
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A few minor house changes can make your home more accessible, comfortable, and safe. Reduce the risk of senior falling with these home modifications:
Check out our article Home Modifications as You Age for more suggestions for preventing falls in the elderly at home.
A cane or walker can help prevent senior falling. If your doctor has recommended an assistive walking device, make sure you use it consistently. Furthermore, making sure your device is the right size and in good working condition is critical to preventing falls in the elderly.
Regular exercise improves flexibility, balance, and strength. With your doctor’s approval, consider adding some balance and strength training like yoga, tai chi, or mild walking to your daily exercise routine.
Wear comfortable, form-fitting shoes that support your feet. We recommend nonskid, rubber-soled shoes that have no or low heels. Getting the right pair of shoes can help in preventing falls in seniors, and it may also improve your muscle health, joint pain, and balance.
When you’re out and about, try to keep your hands free so you can hold on to railings or catch yourself if you begin to fall. Carry your items in a shoulder bag, backpack, crossbody purse, or fanny pack. Ask for assistance when carrying lots of bags; a friend or GoGo driver would be happy to help!
You’re more likely to fall if you are tired, so make sure you’re getting enough high-quality sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping due to a medical condition, chat with your doctor about medications, exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes that can help improve your sleep.
Alcohol causes stumbling, imbalance, and falls (at all ages), so reducing alcohol intake is an important step in preventing falls in seniors.
When you go from a sitting or lying position to a standing one, move slowly and carefully. Blood pressure changes, joint stiffness, and muscle imbalances can make standing up a senior falling risk.
Ice, snow, and rain increase the risk of senior falling and injuries. When it’s nasty outside, consider having GoGoGrandparent.do your driving for you:
Register for GoGoGrandparent and instantly get access to our rides, home maintenance professionals, and delivery services (groceries, takeout, and prescription), which are all designed to enhance your care plan, which includes preventing falls in seniors.
Dont wait for an accident to happen. If your elderly parent is living alone in their own home, it is important to take steps in advance, to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. It is wise to access the situation and assist in implementing safety solutions around the home.Statistics are frightening. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that on average, 1.4 million seniors 65 years of age and older are treated in hospital emergency rooms annually as a result of an accident in the home. Of that age group, the rate of injury is the highest for those 75 years of age and older.Fortunately, most accidents are preventable. By spotting and addressing these hazards early on, you can prevent potential injuries.Heres a home safety guide for seniors to help prevent falls, burns and other household accidents.7 Ways to Make the Home Safe for Your Elderly Loved OnePlace flashlights in several rooms of the house.Make sure there is flashlight available, that is easy to reach from the bed, coffee table, porch seat and any other dimly-lit area in the house where your loved one likes to spend time especially at night. With an easy-to-reach flashlight in place, the senior can safely roam around the home, even in the event of a power outage.Also, keep in mind that stairs, entryways and exteriors should be well-lit at all times. Switches should be easy to reach from doorways.Install grab bars, ramps and railings in the home as needed.Many seniors need something to hold on to in order to help maintain their balance. Grab bars are necessities, particularly in the bathroom. Use your judgement to determine which other areas of the home should be equipped with grab bars. Ramps are crucial if your loved one uses a wheelchair or walker occasionally or at all times. If they are still able to use stairs safely, make sure railings are strong enough for them to grab ahold of and use for support.Maintain a fireproof kitchen.One of the most important things you can do to fireproof a home is to keep a functioning fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Make sure your loved one knows its location and how to use it properly. Ventilation and exhaust systems should be routinely serviced and maintained. Ensure all smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries inserted. Make sure all potential fire sources (candles, ashtrays, etc.) are away from flammable items, such as blankets, bedding, newspapers, etc. Develop an emergency escape plan with your loved one and go over it with them in detail. Print out a copy and post it on the refrigerator if you feel it is necessary.Stairs should be evenly constructed, clear of clutter and well-lit.An evenly built, clear and well-lit staircase with sturdy handrails makes the home safer for the elderly. Serious injuries can occur as a result of an unstable staircase. Never leave clutter on a staircase. Items like shoes or bags left on the stairs can easily lead to a fall resulting in a very serious injury. Consider installing a stair lift if stairs are becoming too difficult or dangerous for your loved one to manage.Renovate the bathroom with walk-in bathtubs or showers.Walk-in tubs (watertight tubs with doors) are built for individuals who have difficulty getting in and out of a traditional bathtub. They also help prevent slipping and come in right or left-handed configurations. This allows for seniors to bathe independently and safely. Walk-in showers are also preferred to those that have sliding shower doors.Program emergency numbers into their cell phone.Show your loved one how to make calls to these contacts quickly and easily. Helping them navigate the phone and even playing out a hypothetical scenario is helpful. In the event of an emergency, time is of the essence! Getting the most important numbers ready for quick dialing can help save a life!Rugs and carpets must be level with the ground and pathways should be clear from cords and/or wires. A homes fundamental components can possibly be dangerous for the elderly when basic safety precautions are not taken. Accidents can happen when floors are not flat and uniform, thus increasing the risk of slips and falls. Always make sure pathways are safely walk-able and consider installing slip-resistant surfaces.There are many things you can do to help keep your loved one safe. This list is just a start and provides some of the most common steps to take. If you like this guide, please share it with someone you know will benefit from it!While many seniors prefer to live independently, they may need assistance with chores, personal care, keeping up with their medications or simply would appreciate extra companionship during the day. Elderlink Home Care can help you keep your favorite senior safe.
As our loved ones age, ensuring their safety becomes a paramount concern. This is especially true for those who choose to live independently at home. At Executive Home Care, we understand the unique challenges seniors face and are dedicated to providing solutions that enhance safety and well-being.Understanding the RisksAging brings with it several risks, including falls, medical emergencies, and the challenges of managing chronic conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.Creating a Safe EnvironmentAt Executive Home Care, we believe in proactively creating a safe living environment for seniors. This involves conducting comprehensive home safety audits to identify potential hazards and recommend modifications. Simple changes like installing grab bars in the bathroom, improving lighting, and removing trip hazards can significantly reduce the risk of falls.Personalized Care PlansEach senior has unique needs. Our caregivers are trained to develop and follow personalized care plans that address the specific health and safety concerns of each client. This might include medication management, mobility assistance, and regular health monitoring.Technology and SafetyAdvancements in technology have introduced new ways to enhance senior safety. Medical alert systems, automated medication dispensers, and home monitoring devices provide an added layer of security, ensuring help is available at the touch of a button.Emergency PreparednessIn emergency situations, timely response is crucial. Our caregivers are trained in emergency response and are familiar with the specific needs and medical history of their clients, ensuring quick and effective action when needed.Companionship and Mental HealthSafety isnt just about physical well-being; mental health is equally important. Loneliness and isolation can have serious consequences for seniors. Our companion care services provide much-needed social interaction, helping to maintain a healthy and happy mind.Nutrition and ExerciseA balanced diet and regular exercise are vital for maintaining health and preventing accidents. Our caregivers assist with meal preparation and encourage physical activity appropriate to the seniors ability and health status.Continual Training and SupportOur caregivers receive ongoing training to stay updated on the best practices in senior safety and care. This commitment to excellence ensures they are equipped to handle a variety of situations, providing the best care possible.At Executive Home Care, the safety of our seniors is our top priority. By understanding the risks, personalizing care, leveraging technology, and focusing on overall well-being, we strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and independent lifestyle for our clients. If youre considering in-home care for a loved one, remember that their safety and happiness are paramount. Executive Home Care is here to support you every step of the way.
Greetings,In our last bi-monthly newsletter, I mentioned we had nominated one of our caregivers Jane, as the Caregiver of the Year for Visiting Angels nationwide. We were notified at the end of January, she was selected to move onto Round 2 of nominations! This round, we must submit video testimonials about Jane from the client, family members, office staff, and our owner Karen. By the time you read this, we will have submitted the video testimonials and will hear back by March 21st if Jane is a semi-finalist for this prestigious award. The winner of this years Caregiver of the Year award will be announced at the Visiting Angels 26th Annual Conference being held in June and will receive $5,000. There are many team members deserving of consideration for Caregiver of the Year, yet Janes exceptional qualities really stand out. Id like to share an excerpt from the written nominations highlighting Janes contribution.Jane has worked with our team for almost three years. She is dedicated to her work and committed to her clients. She is always on time and never calls out, no matter the weather conditions. The dignity of those in her care is a top priority for Jane while maintaining a positive attitude. Shes willing to go-with-the-flow in any circumstance. For example, when her client resists wearing oxygen and doesnt remember why they need to wear it, Jane knows how to navigate the situation with grace and patience. On the other hand, she holds her ground with difficult clients, and even though it may be uncomfortable, she handles it with respect and kindness.Nominating a caregiver of the year is not just a process, its an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary dedication and compassion of someone whose role is to serve others. Being a part of this journey of recognition has been rewarding because it highlights the invaluable contributions of caregivers nationwide and the importance of acknowledging their efforts. Its been a reminder of the power of appreciation and the significance of recognizing individuals who demonstrate excellence in their work. Im pleased to be a part of a nationally known and locally owned company, like Visiting Angels, who understands the importance and joy of recognizing others. In the end, nominating a caregiver is about acknowledging the countless acts of kindness and the immeasurable impact caregivers have on the lives of others. Whether or not Jane wins nationwide, she is our Visiting Angels of Medford, MA Caregiver of the Year 2023, and that is something to celebrate! I look forward to giving you another update regarding the award in May. All for now,Abby
We help tens of thousands of older adults get reliable & safe rides, meds, meals, groceries & home services nationwide. Rides, Groceries, Meals & More: Built Better For Older Adults And People With Disabilities.Screened & monitored services from Uber, DoorDash, Instacart and more, with or without a smartphone, 24/7.Millions of requests fulfilled for hundreds of thousands of people living independently at home. Available in all 50 states and Canada. We make modern services like Uber for seniors accessible and consistent so that you can make the most of every day. Hundreds of thousands of people trust in GoGo to postpone moving into retirement communities or hiring 24/7 caregiving teams.How We Work: Order rides for seniors, groceries, prescription medications, meals, home chores and more with a simple phone call to 1 (855) 464-6872.Our GoGoGuardian technology dramatically improves the reliability and usability of partners like Uber, DoorDash, Instacart & others for people who want to live independently in their home for as long as possible.
We help tens of thousands of older adults get reliable & safe rides, meds, meals, groceries & home services nationwide. Rides, Groceries, Meals & More: Built Better For Older Adults And People With Disabilities.Screened & monitored services from Uber, DoorDash, Instacart and more, with or without a smartphone, 24/7.Millions of requests fulfilled for hundreds of thousands of people living independently at home. Available in all 50 states and Canada. We make modern services like Uber for seniors accessible and consistent so that you can make the most of every day. Hundreds of thousands of people trust in GoGo to postpone moving into retirement communities or hiring 24/7 caregiving teams.How We Work: Order rides for seniors, groceries, prescription medications, meals, home chores and more with a simple phone call to 1 (855) 464-6872.Our GoGoGuardian technology dramatically improves the reliability and usability of partners like Uber, DoorDash, Instacart & others for people who want to live independently in their home for as long as possible.