Fall Risk Prevention Tips and Choosing a Medical Alert System
One out of three seniors will fall this year, but fewer than half of them will talk with their doctors about it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Falls are also the No. 1 cause of injuries in seniors, resulting in hip fractures, cuts, and even serious head and brain injuries that can be fatal. And even when there’s no serious injury, a fall can still be so frightening that seniors may avoid certain activities because they’re afraid they’ll fall again.
Whether it’s slippery floors, rickety stairs, or electrical cords, some of the most common causes of falls are in the home where you might have a false sense of security. That’s why fall prevention starts with creating a safe living space.
This doesn’t have to involve a complete house remodel. You can make your home safe from falls with just a few basic changes. Senior care experts offer the following advice for preventing falls at home:
Clean up clutter. The easiest method for preventing falls is to keep your home neat and tidy. Remove all clutter, such as stacks of old newspapers and magazines, especially from hallways and staircases.
Repair or remove tripping hazards. Sometimes home fixtures can contribute to falls, which can then lead to back pain and other injuries. Examine every room and hallway, looking for items such as loose carpet, slippery throw rugs, or wood floorboards that stick up. Then repair, remove, or replace those items for more effective fall prevention.
Install grab bars and handrails. These safety devices are crucial for going up and down stairs, getting on and off the toilet, and stepping in and out of the bathtub without injuring yourself. It is a good idea to install grab bars by toilets, bathtubs and handrails in stairways and hallways. Have a handyman or family member help with this if necessary.
Avoid wearing loose clothing. You want to feel comfortable at home, but baggy clothes can sometimes make you more likely to fall. Opt for better-fitting and properly hemmed clothing that doesn’t bunch-up or drag on the ground.
Light it right. Inadequate lighting is another major hazard. To create a home that’s more suitable for the elderly, install brighter light bulbs where needed, particularly in stairways and narrow hallways. We recommend adding night-lights in bedrooms and bathrooms for better guidance at night.
Wear shoes. Socks may be comfortable, but they present a slipping risk. Preventing falls at home can be as simple as wearing shoes. You can also purchase non-slip socks that have grips on the soles of the feet if shoes are too uncomfortable.
Make it nonslip. Bathtubs and showers, as well as floors in kitchens, bathrooms, and porches, can become extremely dangerous when wet. To prevent falls on slick surfaces, nonslip mats are advised.
Live on one level. Even with precautions like guardrails, stairs can present a significant falling hazard. If possible, live on one level. Otherwise be extra-careful when you negotiate stairs. If it’s not possible to live on one level, try to limit the trips you take up and down the stairs.
Move more carefully. Many people fall at home by moving too quickly from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa. Preventing falls like this is as easy as taking your time. Remember to pause after going from lying down to sitting and from sitting to standing. Also take a pause before using the railing on stairs, whether going up or down.
Choosing The Best Medical Alert System
If you, or a loved one, are a fall risk you may also consider using a medical alert system. Using a medical alert system, you can call for help when you need it most. Caring Companions At Home works closely with Philips Lifeline, a Massachusetts-based medical alert provider with both wireless and landline options. This company’s medical alerts can be used at home or on the go with features that include auto alert and quick dialing, in the event of a fall. Fall detection software boasts a 95% success rate and Caring Companions At Home is privileged enough to offer our clients Philips Lifeline at a discounted rate!
Philips is a pioneer of the medical alert industry and were the first to offer reliable FALL DETECTION in a pendant. They not only offer three different medical alert systems, but their systems provide fast access to trained Response Associates 24/7, 365 days a year.
The person in need has the option of choosing the level of help that will be dispatched, after a button press. Depending on the situation, Philips Lifeline will dispatch a neighbor, close family member or emergency services. Reliable, two-way communication ensures the right level of help gets dispatched quickly.
If you are interested in learning more about Philips and the discount Caring Companions at Home is able to offer, please reach out to us 949-574-0750. We are in the business of helping seniors in their homes.
