Welcome to the first LifeCare Mobility Solutions blog of 2023! On behalf of our entire team, we hope that this year will be your most joyous year to date. We also hope that it is a very safe year for you and your family members. As you know, our team is dedicated to assisting the elderly and those with disabilities to live comfortable and independent lives. This involves making fall prevention a top priority. Let’s take a look at how to do that.
Eliminate all tripping hazards.
Perhaps the first and most obvious step to preventing falls in the home is to scour it for any and all tripping hazards. Sometimes, they’re not so obvious. Tuck wires away, push furniture closer to the wall, pick those objects up from the floor and remove those throw rugs. By ensuring clear walkways, you will help your elderly loved one to avoid injury-inducing falls throughout the home.
“Statistics show that about one-third of all fall injuries among older adults are caused by environmental hazards, specifically tripping hazards,” reveals Accela Staff, “If a senior unknowingly step on an object on the floor, he or she may trip and fall. By eliminating tripping hazards from their home, seniors can reduce their risk for falls.”
Educate yourself about medications.
Naturally, many elderly people require medical prescriptions to assist with their ailments. However, as you know, many medicines have side effects. Could any of your elderly loved one’s prescription meds be causing dizziness and/or fainting spells? It’s important to be well aware of how the older adult in your life is being affected by his/her medications. Consult a physician and have this discussion to maximize your loved one’s safety.
“Some prescription medications can cause dizziness or sleepiness; if this is the case, check with the prescribing doctor to see if they can be taken at bedtime,” informs Anthony Martin of Choice Mutual, “Dementia, high blood pressure, heart conditions, seizures, and bad vision can also increase the risk of falling and should be addressed.”
Illuminate your home.
Do not underestimate the benefits of a brightly lit home. After all, it’s practically impossible to trip over an object if you can clearly see it in front of you. Don’t let it be lost on you that many seniors battle with vision impairments. Install more lights and ensure that the bulbs are always functioning. This will help your elderly loved one to be more adept at avoiding tripping hazards.
“Insufficient lighting is a contributing factor to fall injuries among seniors,” informs Toronto’s Accela Staff, “Seniors suffering from age-related vision loss may struggle to see inside their homes without proper lighting…Therefore, seniors should install high-lumen lighting throughout their homes, including the entryways, bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, stairs, and garages.”
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we’re committed to the health and safety of your elderly loved ones. If you have any questions about how our home health care products and mobility solutions can help to prevent falls in your home, please don’t hesitate to call us at 416-267-9800 or email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
