Why Seniors are More At Risk of Falls
Changes in Balance
Difficulties with balance and lower body weakness increase the risk of falling. Change in weight and balance due to aging happens and can be improved with exercise or walking aids like canes and walkers.
Eyesight Challenges
Our eyesight changes as we get older. To help your older loved one see clearly, make sure they have an updated prescription for glasses. Check your home to make sure it’s well lit and install nightlights to help improve movement at nighttime.
Hazards in the Home
While home might feel like the safest place, it can have a lot of hidden risks. The living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and hallways are all places that need to be inspected and checked for hazards. Here are some suggestions to make any home safer for seniors:
- Declutter the home by removing old newspapers, boxes, and covering all electrical cords on the floor.
- Move any low-standing furniture, like ottomans, coffee tables, and plant stands from high traffic areas in the home.
- Add a non-slip mat to the bathtubs or shower to prevent slipping. Using a bath seat can also allow seniors to sit down while showering.
Medical Conditions
Often, older adults live with one or more chronic medical conditions. While it isn’t the only contributing factor to falling, any medical condition is a potential risk factor. For example, Parkinson’s can change a person’s gait and balance, making it more difficult to walk. Understanding how these conditions affect your loved one’s mobility and implementing changes to the environment to help them be more independent is necessary.
Medications
Have your older loved one’s perceptions changed? Sometimes, medication has side effects that increase drowsiness or affect balance. If you notice that a certain medication seems to be negatively affecting your loved one, talk to their doctor about alternatives.
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