As springtime blooms, we're inspired to take on routine cleaning and home maintenance tasks. But spring is also a great time to assess seniors' safety at home and outdoors, with the goal of preventing fall-related injuries. With increasing age, the risk of falls also escalates, making it a significant concern for seniors. Discover some easy-to-follow tips for fall prevention and protect yourself from serious injury.
Falling Risks for Seniors
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. These falls can lead to severe health implications like fractures, head injuries, and even increased fear of falling, leading to less physical activity and more frailty over time. Given the seriousness of these risks, it's vital to adopt preventive measures, especially with the arrival of the spring season when we're all more active.
Spring Safety Tips for Seniors
Ready to improve safety in your home? Here are some tips that can reduce the risk of falls for everyone, especially seniors:
Declutter Living Spaces
The first step towards preventing falls is clearing tripping hazards. Remove things like unnecessary furniture, rugs, and excess clutter. The key to safety is improving accessibility and ensuring that essential items are within easy reach.
Maintain clear pathways toward important areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Adequate lighting and easy access to switches are also important to avoid accidentally stumbling over objects.
Install Handrails
Handrails provide the necessary support that seniors need when navigating their homes. They are especially helpful in accident-prone places like stairs, bathrooms, and corridors. A well-placed handrail can be the difference between a safe walk and a serious fall, so consider installing handrails in your home where necessary.
Wear Proper Footwear
The type of shoes seniors wear plays a significant role in preventing falls. Footwear without proper grip can increase the risk of slipping. Seniors should wear non-slip shoes, even when within their homes. They offer better stability and significantly reduce the risk of falls.
Other Safety Measures for Seniors
Along with decluttering, installing handrails, and wearing the right footwear, it's also important to focus on individual health. Regular exercise targeting balance and strength can lower the risk of falls. Seniors should also have regular vision and hearing checks, as issues with either can impact balance and coordination.
Have your healthcare provider review your medications on a regular basis. Some medications—or combinations thereof—can cause dizziness or drowsiness, increasing the risk of falls. A doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist can help assess any medication-related risks.
Stay Safe With Senior Helpers
Senior Helpers West Pasco is committed to promoting the wellness and safety of seniors in our community. Our professional caregivers are always ready to assist with personalized care plans that suit individual needs. With our help, seniors are empowered to live safely and independently in their own homes, on their terms.
If you live in Wesley Chapel, Trinity, Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, or Oldsmar, contact us today to learn more about our in-home care and companionship services.