It is estimated that 800,000 people are hospitalized a year as a result of a fall. Is your senior loved one in Maple Grove, MN protected?
In most cases, falls can lead to other health-related conditions and can be the start of a decline. It is estimated that over 800,000 people are hospitalized a year as a result of a fall. It is also estimated that 1 out of 5 falls causes serious injuries including death. Senior falls are much more common than many people think and can lead to serious injuries such as breaks, fractures, and head trauma. Many senior in-home care franchises across the country are recognizing the dangers of senior falls and providing free in-home assessments to identify possible dangers in the home.
The risk of a senior fall in Maple Grove, MN can be reduced
It is worth looking online and contacting a home care agency in Maple Grove, MN about doing a fall prevention assessment if you have concerns. There are a few key tips to keep in mind when trying to protect your loved one from the risk of a fall.
Keep seniors active
One of the most important ways to combat the chance of a fall for a senior is to maintain an active, and healthy lifestyle. Remaining active is key for maintaining and building muscle. Remaining active will also help a senior with their balance, and stamina.
Maintain a balanced diet and exercise routine
There are plenty of resources available to seniors and their families in regards to physical exercises to maintain balance. A balanced diet is also a key component to maintaining a healthy lifestyle in an effort to combat the risk of a fall. Muscle is built and maintained by having a protein-rich diet. Seniors should access and make changes to their diets if they are not getting enough daily protein. It is recommended that a senior eat between 1 and 1.2 g/kg of protein a day.
Remove clutter and walking obstructions
Seniors fall every day simply because they had too much clutter in their home that obstructed their walking path. Seniors and their families should clean up anything in a senior home that could cause an accidental trip. This could include items such as small furniture, pet toys, phone/ computer cords, and rugs. Checking the outside of the home is just as important as checking the inside as a fall can happen anywhere. Make sure that your senior loved one is taken care of during inclement weather conditions and avoids going out when weather conditions are not favorable.
Talk to your senior loved one in Maple Grove, MN
Knowledge is power, and we have the ability to talk to our senior loved ones about falls. Avoiding anything is easier when you have the knowledge to combat it. Sit down and talk to your loved one about the risks associated with falls, and get their thoughts on areas of their life that may cause them danger. Keep an open mind during this discussion, and reassure your senior loved one that you are looking out for their best interest. Some seniors may feel as though you are trying to remove them from their home or suggesting they seek care.
Avoiding a fall is one of the most important factors that seniors and their families should try to prevent. The best method of avoiding falls is by maintaining health and preventing dangerous circumstances by thinking ahead of risks.
Did you know that investing in in-home care can help lower the risk of accidents? If you have a senior loved one in Maple Grove or the surrounding area that would benefit from senior care contact Comfort Keepers today.
