Fall Prevention- Seven Ways to Prevent Falls
As we prepare for cooler temperatures and welcome autumn, it's important to remember that September 18th also marks the beginning of Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 4 older adults experiences a fall every year. While many falls are avoidable, the CDC also reports they are the number one cause of injury in adults 65 and over.
To kick off Falls Prevention Awareness Week, we put together this guide of 7 simple steps to help prevent falls for the senior adult in your life.
What causes falls in seniors?
There are several reasons why older adults tend to fall more than any other age group. The senior population is more at risk of falling due to:
● Previous history of falls
● Side effects of certain medications- antipsychotics, antidepressants, sedatives, beta-blockers, diuretics, etc.
● Improper use of an assistive device, like a walker or cane
● Environmental hazards- cluttered, poorly lit, inadequate flooring, poorly designed tubs, obstructed walkways
● Decline in physical activity
● Issues with balance or walking
● Impaired vision
● Trouble hearing
● Cognitive decline
● Chronic medical conditions- Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis
● Hip replacements and other surgeries
How to prevent falls in seniors
Falls can stem from an unsafe living environment, medications, or a medical condition. And a person who has a fall can have trouble getting around, doing everyday activities, or living independently.
If you are taking care of a loved one or know someone at risk for falls, here are some steps to avoid them.
Tip # 1: Discuss any health concerns and encourage them to speak with their physician about their risk of falling
Many medical conditions can cause a person to be more prone to falling, including:
● Diabetes
● Heart disease
● Chronic pain
● Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
● Dehydration
● Vertigo
● Delirium
● Depression
Helping your loved one understand their condition and its effects on their body can empower them to speak freely with their doctor. Encourage them to consult with their physician immediately if they have a fall, worry about falling, or feel unsteady.
Tip #2: Talk with them about their current medications
Both prescription and over-the-counter medications can have potential side effects that lead to falls, such as dizziness, muscle weakness, confusion, or sleepiness.
Help your loved one make a list of all their current medications to review with their health care provider for side effects and interactions that may increase their risk of falling.
It's important to be mindful if your loved one is on multiple medications (polypharmacy), as this can put them at greater risk for falls and other safety concerns.
Tip #3: Clean up clutter and remove hazards in the home
Clutter and unsafe living conditions can interfere with your loved one's ability to live independently and age in place while also increasing their risk of falling.
While you want to be mindful and respect their space, some suggestions you can make for fall-proofing their home are:
● Reduce or eliminate items that limit mobility or can be a trip hazard
● Rearrange furniture that may block a clear walking path
● Be sure cords and wires stay as close to the walls as possible
● Increase lighting with brighter light bulbs and nightlights in the bathroom, bedrooms, and the kitchen
● Keep frequently used items where they are easily accessible
● Use non-slip mats in the bathtub, shower floors, and other potentially slippery surfaces
● Get rid of throw rugs, even on carpeted floors
If you feel like your loved one might be showing signs of hoarding, you may want to find support to help them before suggesting they declutter or remove anything from their home.
Tip #4: Install grab bars, handrails, and other home modifications
Your loved one's physician may recommend a walker or cane to help keep them steady and balanced when they walk.
You may also want to look at other medical devices to install in the home to reduce fall risks, including:
● Handrails for both sides of stairs
● Non-slip treads for steps that may be slippery
● A raised toilet seat (available with or without armrests)
● Grab bars for the tub, shower, and beside the toilet
● A shower chair or bath bench
● Hand-held shower nozzle
Tip #5: Inquire about their last eye exam
Yearly eye exams play a critical part in fall prevention. Regular checks allow the eye doctor to identify common age-related eye issues and intervene earlier.
Eye conditions that can cause severe problems, like falls, include:
● Diabetic retinopathy
● Retinal tearing
● Glaucoma
It's also essential to ensure your loved one updates their eyeglasses or contact lens as needed.
Tip #6: Ensure they are wearing proper shoes
It might not be something we regularly think about, but certain shoes pose a more significant fall risk than others. Improper footwear for those at risk for falls includes unsafe features and incorrect sizing.
Studies suggest that shoes too big, poor grip, lacking support, or no fastening were commonly associated with falls. In addition, many people who experienced falls inside were often barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, or wearing slippers.
When it comes to proper footwear, look for shoes that:
● fit correctly
● have a closed and low heel
● are lightweight
● have soles made of slip-resistant material and tread
Tip #7: Look for signs that they may benefit from physical and/or occupational therapy
Have you noticed your loved one holding onto walls, furniture, or someone else when walking? Are they having trouble getting up when sitting, putting their clothes on, or walking? It might be time to see a physical or occupational therapist at home or in an inpatient or outpatient clinic.
"Putting together an interdisciplinary team that works in tandem with us as we age is a key component to good outcomes and fewer falls," says Whitney Crawley, LPTA and owner of Benchmark Senior Solutions. "We must work together in finding solutions, meaning our caregivers and healthcare professionals communicate and collaborate."
Physical therapists or other healthcare providers can also recommend exercises that improve balance and body strength, lowering the chances of falling.
Many people don't realize that outpatient therapy under traditional Medicare programs often covers 80% by Medicare and 20% by secondary insurance. (be sure to check your individual plan for coverage details)
Final thoughts
Preventing falls means preventing injuries. Even one fall can be devastating for an older adult. Utilizing these steps can help reduce falls from happening.
If your loved one has expressed interest in moving into a senior living community in the Richmond area, or you want to explore housing options to better meet their needs, Benchmark Senior Solutions can help.
We offer free senior housing advisory services for older adults in Central VA. That means we use our knowledge and expertise to help your loved one find the perfect place to call home based on their medical needs, budget, and lifestyle.
From assisted living and memory care to skilled nursing and independent communities, Benchmark is Richmond's trusted source for senior placement services. Contact us today to get started!
