Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults, often leading to significant injuries and hospital costs averaging over $30,000. However, many falls are preventable with proactive steps and mindful care. Here’s a comprehensive checklist from Orange Hospice to help you minimize fall risks and keep your loved one safe.
Basic Fall Prevention Tips
- Stay Alert to Signs of Unsteadiness: Be mindful of dizziness, weakness, swaying, or unsteadiness. If you notice these signs, offer closer supervision and discourage walking without assistance.
- Ensure Proper Use of Walking Aids: Assist your loved one in using a properly fitted cane or walker, with someone nearby for additional support and to spot any hazards.
- Keep Prescription Glasses Handy: If your loved one wears eyeglasses, make sure they use them while moving about to maintain clear vision.
- Encourage Supportive Footwear: Use footwear with good traction or grippy socks indoors. Discourage loose slippers or flip-flops, which can increase fall risks.
Fall Prevention Around the Home
Falls often happen at home, but a few simple adjustments can make the home significantly safer. Here are some recommended steps for fall-proofing a residence:
- Enhance Lighting: Make sure each room is well-lit. Install nightlights in hallways and bathrooms, add stairway strip lighting, and ensure dimly lit rooms have additional lighting.
- Maintain Clean and Clutter-Free Floors: Clear walkways and floors of loose items, and tape down potential tripping hazards like loose rugs and electric cords.
- Organize for Easy Access: Arrange essential items within reach, especially on the ground floor, to prevent unnecessary reaching or climbing.
- Install Railings: Add railings along hallways, stairways, bathrooms, and outdoor areas to provide sturdy support as your loved one moves around.
Outdoor Fall Prevention Tips
When venturing outside, take extra precautions to help your loved one navigate safely:
- Stay Mindful of Uneven Surfaces: Watch for uneven ground, cracks in sidewalks, curbs, or changes in pavement height.
- Encourage Slow, Steady Movement: Remind your loved one to move slowly, especially when carrying items.
- Use Handrails and Keep Hands Free: Ensure they use handrails when available and carry items in a shoulder bag or backpack to keep hands free for balance.
- Shield Eyes with Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare.
- Avoid Slippery Conditions: Refrain from going out on wet, slippery roads, as these can increase fall risks.
What to Do if Your Loved One Falls
If a fall occurs, it’s essential to remain calm and take the following steps:
- Stay Calm: Do not panic, as this can increase anxiety for both you and your loved one.
- Assessment for Injuries: Check for any signs of injury, including bruising or difficulty moving.
- Contact Orange Hospice: Call us at (741) 790-0594 for immediate guidance and support.
- Assist with Caution: Help them up slowly, placing a sturdy chair or object in front of them for balance. If they are in pain or have difficulty moving, stop and wait for assistance from Orange Hospice.
At Orange Hospice, We’re Here to Help
By following these fall prevention steps, you’re taking proactive measures to help your loved one live more safely and confidently. Remember, if you ever need additional guidance or support, Orange Hospice is here to provide compassionate care and expert advice.
