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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the odds of falling each year after age 65 in the United States are about one in three. Fortunately, most of these falls don't result in serious injury. Still, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related death among older adults. You are more likely to fall as you get older because of common, age-related physical changes and medical conditions — and the medications you may take to treat such conditions.
The emotional effects of a fall can be devastating, even when there is no physical injury. It is all too common for fear of falling to restrict a senior’s freedom of movement and result in feelings of helplessness and a decrease of their home health and independence. But, you needn't let the fear of falling rule your life. Many falls and fall-related injuries are preventable with fall-prevention measures. The CDC says that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. These include slipping and tripping hazards, poor lighting, or lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. Comfort Keepers, premier providers of in-home care, is available to provide a free home safety assessment which can help you identify home hazards and address areas of concern.
Comfort Keepers utilizes a training program that teaches home care professionals and primary caregivers how to reduce the risk of falls to the senior and themselves and at the same time encourages independence.
The topics covered are:
• The physical and emotional effects of a fall
• The goal of fall prevention
• Proper shoes
• How to prevent falls in the home
• Medications
• Walkers and wheelchairs
• Emergency alarm systems
• What to do when someone is no longer safe at home
In our effort to provide the most quality and comprehensive senior care, we provide this training tool on loan to the families of our clients who may be assisting with care.
Additionally, for more information on home safety, follow this link to the CDC’s Check for Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults brochure.