Don’t Let a Fall Change Everything: 7 Tips to Prevent Falls at Home
With your help, you can significantly lower that risk and keep them safer.
Falls are no small matter as your loved ones age. In fact, they’re the leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations and deaths for people over 65. What makes them even more serious is how fast they can change everything. Falls are responsible for 40% of retirement home admissions in Canada and can lead to an increase in home care costs.
If someone you care about has had a fall but wasn’t seriously hurt, count yourself lucky—but don’t breathe easy just yet. After falling once, seniors are three times more likely to fall again within the next year. However, with your help, you can significantly lower that risk and keep them safer.
Why Do Falls Happen?
A lot can contribute to a fall as our elders grow older. Their bodies and senses don’t react quite like they used to. Here are some of the most common factors that may affect your loved one:
- Eyesight, hearing, and reflexes naturally dull over time.
- Health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or nerve issues can make balance tricky.
- Cognitive impairments, such as dementia, increase the risk of falling.
- Incontinence can lead to rushed movements, raising the chances of slipping.
- Muscle loss (sarcopenia) and changes in blood pressure when standing can make them unsteady.
- Ill-fitting shoes or footwear like backless shoes can easily lead to a misstep.
- Taking multiple medications can cause dizziness or confusion, further increasing the fall risk.
Even the fear of falling itself can be dangerous. When your loved one is scared, they might avoid activities that keep them strong, which increases the likelihood of a fall. So, how can you help break this cycle?
Regular Risk Assessments
Senior fall prevention starts with knowing the risks. That’s why regular assessments are so important. HomeFree offers a free risk assessment tool that evaluates their risk and offers personalized recommendations. By understanding their unique challenges, you can address them early and help keep them happy and healthy in the home they love.
Encourage Physical Activity
Exercising for seniors is key to helping them build strength and balance. Activities like walking, yoga, Pilates, and tai chi can improve muscle tone and coordination, which reduces the likelihood of falling. Strength training—whether it’s lifting weights or using resistance bands—also helps maintain strong muscles and healthy bones. Not only will staying active reduce fall risks, but it will also boost their confidence in moving around.
Review Medications Regularly
Some medications can cause dizziness, confusion, or drowsiness, all of which increase the chance of a fall. It’s important to review their medications regularly with a healthcare provider. Adjusting doses or switching to safer alternatives can make a significant difference in keeping your loved one steady on their feet.
Choose Proper Footwear
The right shoes can make all the difference. Help your loved one choose non-skid, rubber-soled shoes with low heels for maximum stability. Avoid shoes with smooth soles, backless styles, or high heels, as they can easily cause slips and trips.
Make Their Home Fall-Proof
A safer home means fewer falls. Take steps to fall-proof their living space, such as removing loose rugs, installing sturdy railings on stairs, and adding grab bars in bathrooms. Make sure the home is well-lit, especially at night, and keep floors clear of clutter to reduce the chances of tripping.
Ensure Regular Eye and Hearing Checks
Even small changes in vision or hearing can affect your loved one’s balance. Regular eye exams and hearing checks are essential. Making sure they have the right glasses or properly fitting hearing aids can help them feel more secure and confident in their environment.
Use Assistive Devices When Needed
If your loved one feels unsteady, using a cane, walker, or other assistive devices can make a huge difference. Ensure they’re using the right device for their needs and that it’s adjusted to the correct height. Assistive devices provide the extra support needed to help prevent falls.
You Can Influence the Outcome
Falls are a serious concern, but they’re not inevitable. By being proactive—ensuring regular risk assessments, making adjustments to your loved one’s home, and encouraging physical activity—you can help reduce the risk of falls and keep them living safely in the home they love. Regular check-ins with their healthcare provider and a personalized approach to their needs can turn the fear of falling into peace of mind. Together, you can make their golden years as safe, happy, and independent as possible.
