Plan Ahead for Slips and Falls: How to Create a Communication Plan for Fallen Seniors

Slips and falls are common causes of injuries in seniors. Even a slight fall can cause a major injury, such as a broken hip or shattered ankle. In-home senior care providers have an important responsibility to plan ahead for slips and fall incidents so that they can always prepare and provide timely assistance when needed.

This blog post outlines the steps necessary for creating a communication plan for seniors who have fallen.

Main Risk Factors for Slips and Falls

Awareness of the main risk factors for slips and falls in seniors is important. The most common risks include wet surfaces, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, poor footwear or clothing choices, and medications that cause dizziness or impaired balance.

Health conditions that affect mobility and strength such as arthritis or Parkinson's disease can also cause slips and falls.

Creating a Communication Plan for Seniors

Creating a communication plan for fallen seniors requires assessing the home environment, establishing a primary point of contact, determining which communication channels to use, investing in a wearable medical device, and having a list of local resources ready. 

Assess the Home Environment

The first step in creating a communication plan is to assess the home environment. This includes inspecting all areas of the house and looking for potential hazards. This can include wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting that can lead to slips and falls. Make sure to also check for items such as furniture or rugs that could cause seniors to trip over. 

Establish a Primary Point of Contact

Once the home environment has been assessed, it's important to establish a primary point of contact. This is usually a family member or caregiver who can be contacted in case of an emergency. Make sure they are aware of the senior's medical conditions and medications that could affect their balance or mobility. 

Determine Which Communication Channels to Use

The next step is to determine which communication channels should be used in the event of a fall. These can include cell phones, landlines, or wearable medical devices such as an emergency alert system. A wearable medical device can be extremely valuable. It can alert caregivers or family members if the senior has fallen and is unable to get up. 

Have a List of Local Resources Ready

Senior caregivers should also have a list of local resources ready in an emergency. This can include the name and contact information of medical professionals such as physicians, physical therapists, nurses, or occupational therapists that can provide assistance if needed. 

Senior Helpers Can Assist With Custom Caregiving Services

Slips and falls in seniors are serious incidents. But with a few simple steps and some proactive thinking, you can establish a solid plan to protect your senior loved one.

If you need assistance creating a communication plan or have any questions about caring for a senior adult, contact Senior Helpers Charlotte. We provide seniors in the Charlotte, Pineville, and Concord area with personalized in-home caregiving services.