Focus on Fall Prevention
Elderly fall prevention is more critical than ever before to families. Each year, one in every three adults age 65 and older falls and the results can be life-altering. At BrightStar Care of San Francisco and Marin, most of our clients are identified as being at risk of falling for a number of reasons. We address this by way of a unique solution that pairs our clinical expertise and patient education for family caregivers to reduce fall risk by managing chronic conditions, monitoring medications and helping to address other top causes of falls in seniors.
At BrightStar Care of San Francisco and Marin, our approach to fall prevention is rooted in our unparalleled clinical expertise. We hold Joint Commission accreditation, a nationally recognized mark of quality. In accordance with our Joint Commission commitment to National Patient Safety Goals, we relentlessly track falls that occur both when we are and are not present and perform analysis on all falls that do occur to determine what could have occurred to prevent it to better care for our clients and to reduce the likelihood it will occur again.
Lessen Risks Around the Home
The home is where most falls occur, so taking some precautions to prevent tripping hazards can go a long way. Here are some easy steps you can take to reduce fall risk around the home:1. Clear pathways of electrical cords, furniture, and other clutter.
2. Put regularly used items within easy reach, i.e. at waist or counter level.
3. Put night lights in bathrooms and on stairs.
4. Secure floor coverings with non-slip pads.
5. Install handrails, grab bars, and tub mats in the bathroom.
Make Self-Care a Priority:
Keeping a loved one safe from falls isn't just about external modifications. Encouraging self-care practices can also help foster bone and muscle strength, reducing the risk of falls. Some self-care tips for seniors include:1. Wear sturdy, orthopedic shoes with good traction.
2. Use assistive devices like a cane or walker for added stability.
3. Take regular doctor visits to manage any underlying health conditions.
4. Take part in low-impact exercise programs that promote balance and flexibility.
Help can come in many different forms, so don't hesitate to seek out community resources and support for your loved one.
Click on the infographic below for more details on some of the most common causes of falls and what you can do to decrease your or a loved one’s risk:
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Fall Prevention Tips for Family Caregivers:
If you have an aging parent or relative, it's crucial to take steps to reduce their fall risk. Here are some considerations for helping a loved one who might be at risk of falling:1. Medication interactions: Understand how medications interact in the body and follow prescription instructions carefully.
2. Weakness, fatigue and illness: Encourage them to stay healthy and rested, and seek medical help when needed.
3. Lack of physical strength, balance: Consider therapy programs or balance exercises.
4. Environmental hazards: Keep the home clutter-free, and consider installing assistive devices like handrails or lift chairs.
5. Chronic conditions: Address any underlying chronic conditions or illnesses, and monitor symptoms closely.
Fall prevention is a crucial aspect of senior care, and with the right steps, caregivers can help their loved ones remain safe, independent, and healthy. By making small modifications to the home, encouraging self-care practices, and seeking out community resources, caregivers can help reduce their loved one's fall risk and ensure they maintain their quality of life. Remember: preventing falls is about enabling your loved one to live life to the fullest.
Conclusion:
For even more ideas to fall-proof your home, read our BrightStar Care Home Safety Checklist.Helpful Resources
If you are looking for more help and support for a loved one who might be at risk of falling, contact us today for a free in-home assessment to identify key risk factors and provide a comprehensive fall care plan for your loved one.