One in four Older Americans experience a fall every year, and the consequences are often devastating. Hip fractures, broken bones and head injuries, all common results, contribute to falls being the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in adults aged 65 and older. Even without a major injury, falls can cause seniors to become fearful or depressed, and inhibit them from living active, independent lives.
The good news is that most falls are preventable. Aging parents, grandparents, and other elder loved ones can benefit on many levels when adult family members and friends help them alleviate falling risks. In our blog, we want to share five ways to help avoid senior falls this National Falls Prevention Month.
Talk to an aging parents or senior loved ones about their health. Are they experiencing any problems? With compassion, explore any concerns and consider notifying their doctor. One telltale warning sign can be when their health begins to affect the ability to manage daily activities.
It’s no secret that eyesight declines with age. Poor vision, however, is also a major contributing factor to falling. Make sure an elder parent has had a recent eye exam and is wearing their appropriate prescription.
There are many ways to make a senior adult’s home safer. Removing throw rugs and clutter, increasing lighting, and installing safety devices such as bathroom grab bars are all effective safeguards. Overall, home-safety precautions can be performed informally, or in consultation with an occupational therapist.
Talk about whether an aging parent is managing his or her prescription medicines as required, and if he or she is experiencing any adverse side effects. Dizziness, dehydration and drowsiness are common reactions that can contribute to falling. Do not wait to talk to a doctor or pharmacist about possible alternatives.
It’s critical for adult children to remain vigilant. If an aging parent is bumping into furniture or displaying imbalance, then they may need family support to pursue advice from a doctor and explore solutions.
These are just five tips to help aging loved ones avoid falling. If you need additional advice or are ready to begin planning to protect those you love, do not hesitate to contact our office.
