The number of falls continue to rise in the aging population and some of these falls have serious consequences. Each year, millions of older adults experience a fall. And, according to the CDC, more than one out of every four older adults fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor about it. Seniors value maintaining their freedom of movement around their communities and are frequently adverse to many safety measures that we might want to put in place to prevent a fall.
How can you build safety into a person’s life while maintaining their independence?
- Incorporate Exercise into the Daily Routine: Try adding just twenty minutes of progressive strengthening and balance activity into the daily routine. What classes are offered through the wellness and/or activities program? Consider adding a balance and strength class at least two to three times per week for your residents.
- Mind Medications: There are many medications that can impact a person’s risk for a fall. Make sure you are aware of what medications residents may be taking and how it could impact their balance. For example, sleeping pills and sedatives can cause dizziness, while hypertension medications can cause postural hypotension.
- Modify Environment: Look at ways to make the environment for seniors as safe as possible. Eliminate area rugs, reduce clutter, ensure clear paths to restroom, install grab bars, and ensure furniture will not topple over if used to hold on to. These modifications can be done in common areas, but more importantly, they should be done in the residents’ rooms.
- Use Proper Lighting: Falls commonly occur in the middle of the night when someone gets up to use the restroom and falls because it is dark, and they cannot see properly. An easy solution is to Illuminate the path to the restroom. This can be done with nightlights, toilet lights, or even motion sensor lights.
- Select Footwear: Proper footwear is essential in fall prevention. Shoes with a back on them, like tennis shoes, and shoes or socks with tread are recommended. Avoid shoes that you slip into, like clogs or slides, and make sure the shoe fits properly.
- Use Recommended Walker or Cane: Assistive devices can be great aids for balance and fall prevention, but it is important that the device is fitted for the user, as well as educating the user on proper form and technique.
- Soft Floors: While it is not always possible, carpeting is preferable as it is softer if a resident should experience a fall. Consider carpet in bedrooms, common areas, and living spaces.
- Offer a Tai Chi Class: If possible, consider offering a Tai Chi class two to three times per week. Tai Chi emphasizes weight shifting, postural alignment, and coordinated movements with synchronized breathing.
Functional Pathways’ Wellness Program and Skilled Therapy services has trained professionals and programs designed for helping Senior Living Communities reduce falls while maintaining seniors’ highest level of independence. Remember: it’s a balancing act!