Medical Alert: What if I fall?

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Medical Alert Protecting Senior Loved Ones from Falls: A Guide for Families

Falls are common in older people and can be caused by a number of factors, including aging, health conditions, and environmental hazards. Some enjoy wearing a Medical Alert Bracelet for peace of mind. Falls are a significant concern for seniors, often leading to injuries, hospitalization, and a decline in overall health. As our loved ones age, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to minimize their risk of falling. This article provides valuable insights and practical tips for families seeking to create a safer environment for their senior loved ones.

Understanding Fall Risks

Several factors contribute to falls in seniors, including:

Age-related changes: Muscle weakness, decreased bone density, and impaired balance can increase the likelihood of falls.
Medical conditions: Certain health issues like arthritis, vision problems, and neurological disorders can affect mobility and stability.
Medications: Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or interact in ways that increase fall risk.
Environmental hazards: Cluttered spaces, loose rugs, and poor lighting can create tripping hazards.

Creating a Fall-Proof Home

Making modifications to your loved one’s home can significantly reduce the risk of falls:

Remove hazards: Clear walkways of clutter, secure loose rugs, and tuck away electrical cords.
Improve lighting: Ensure adequate lighting throughout the house, especially in hallways, stairways, and bathrooms. Consider using nightlights.
Install grab bars: Place grab bars in bathrooms, particularly near the toilet and shower, to provide extra support.
Non-slip surfaces: Use non-slip mats in the shower and bathroom to prevent slips.
Assistive devices: Encourage the use of canes, walkers, or other assistive devices if needed.
Keep items within reach: Arrange frequently used items within easy reach to avoid stretching or bending.

Fall Prevention: Promoting Physical Health

Regular exercise can play a vital role in preventing falls by improving strength, balance, and coordination:

Balance exercises: Encourage activities like Tai Chi or yoga that focus on balance and flexibility

Tai chi and other balance and strength exercises can help reduce the risk of falls.
Strength training: Help your loved one engage in exercises that strengthen muscles, especially in the legs and core.
Regular check-ups: Schedule regular medical check-ups to address any underlying health conditions that may contribute to falls.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, seniors may require additional support to prevent falls:

Home healthcare services: Consider hiring a caregiver to assist with daily tasks and provide companionship.
Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist can assess your loved one’s needs and recommend modifications to their home environment.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help improve strength, balance, and mobility through targeted exercises.
Senior placement: If your loved one’s needs become too challenging to manage at home, consider exploring senior living options.

What to do if someone falls

Call an ambulance if the person can’t get up on their own

Notify the person’s doctor

If there are no injuries and the person thinks they can get up, help them to a chair or stable piece of furniture

What Can Cause a Fall

Vision and hearing: Poor eyesight or hearing can make it harder to see and hear hazards
Medications: Side effects from certain medications can cause dizziness or confusion
Balance and mobility: Loss of muscle mass, or sarcopenia, can make it harder to lift feet
Blood pressure: Postural hypotension, or a drop in blood pressure when standing, can cause falls
Low Blood Sugar: Important factors for living is to try to follow a healthy diet
Home hazards: Poor lighting or throw rugs can increase the risk of tripping or slipping
Cognitive impairment: Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can increase the risk of falling
Footwear: Unstable shoes like backless shoes or high heels can increase the risk of falling

Key Takeaways

Protecting senior loved ones from falls requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both environmental and physical factors. By taking proactive steps to create a safe home environment, promoting physical activity, and seeking professional assistance when needed, families can significantly reduce the risk of falls and help their loved ones maintain their independence and quality of life.

Diane Delaney, Placement Specialist Extraordinaire

Diane Delaney, Golden Placement Services — Diane Delaney

Delaney is the founder of Golden Placement Services. She began this business with a healthy dose of compassion for helping families make educated decisions regarding senior placement. Focused to relieve stress in uncertain senior housing crucial moments. Diane brings about loving change of lifestyle with grace. Additionally, Diane is an accomplished executive manager, Director of Operations in senior housing. Emphatically, she enjoys sharing her experience. Diane enjoys writing about the full spectrum of the transition process for seniors and family members. Read more from Senior Placement Specialist Diane: Ultimate Senior Living Resource Guide >>

Stephanie Brubaker, Senior Placement Specialist

Stephanie - Helping you find a Place for Mom — Stephanie Brubaker

steph.goldenplacements@gmail.com | 971-263-8533 Stephanie got her start working as an administrator for Golden Placement Services. It served her well as she worked in sales and marketing while living in Austin, TX. Now that she is back in Oregon she’s excited to take the plunge and work alongside the Golden Girls as a placement specialist. She feels lucky to receive her training from experienced mentors, her mother Diane. Stephanie looks forward to being a part of the family whose main objective is to help your family through senior housing options with empathy, integrity, and compassion.