Falls are a common occurrence among elderly people, with one in three people over the age of 65 experiencing a fall each year. These falls can lead to serious injuries such as fractures, head injuries, and even death. It’s important to take steps to prevent falls in elderly people to keep them safe and healthy. Here are some tips on how to prevent falls in the elderly.
Remove hazards around the home
A cluttered home can be a hazard for elderly people, as it can be difficult for them to navigate around. Remove tripping hazards such as cords, rugs, and clutter. Install handrails on stairs and in the bathroom. Make sure that all areas of the home are well lit, especially at night.
Exercise regularly
Exercise can improve balance and coordination, which can help prevent falls. Encourage the elderly person to participate in activities such as walking or a gentle exercise routine (here are a few examples!) to improve their balance and coordination.
Use assistive devices
Assistive devices such as canes, walkers, and mobility scooters can help the elderly person navigate around their home and outdoors. These devices can provide support and stability, which can reduce the risk of falls.
Medications and health conditions
Certain medications and health conditions can increase the risk of falls. Review the medications the elderly person is taking with their healthcare provider to see if any may be contributing to their risk of falls. If a health condition is causing a risk of falls, work with their healthcare provider to address it.
Vision and hearing
Poor vision and hearing can contribute to the risk of falls. Make sure that the elderly person’s vision and hearing are checked regularly, and if necessary, use assistive devices such as glasses or hearing aids.
Use alarms and safety devices
There are many different alarms and safety devices that can help prevent falls in the elderly. These include bed and chair alarms, fall detection devices, and wearable GPS devices. These devices can alert caregivers or emergency services if a fall occurs.
Keep the home safe
Make sure that the home is well maintained and safe for the elderly person. Repair any loose floorboards or tiles, and ensure that all areas of the home are free of hazards.
Encourage socialising
Socialising can help reduce the risk of falls in the elderly. Encourage the elderly person to participate in activities and spend time with friends and family. This can help improve their mental and physical well-being, which can help reduce the risk of falls.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can contribute to the risk of falls in the elderly. Encourage the elderly person to drink plenty of fluids, especially on hot days or when they are participating in physical activities.
Preventing falls in the elderly is important for their safety and well-being. By taking steps such as removing hazards around the home, exercising regularly, and using assistive devices, you can help reduce the risk of falls and keep the elderly person safe.
If a fall does occur, it’s important to seek medical attention and take steps to prevent future falls. With a little bit of effort and planning, you can help keep the elderly person in your life safe and healthy.
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The Adaptive Clothing Australia Team
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