How to Prevent Falls in the Home by the Elderly?

How to Prevent Falls in the Home by the Elderly? People over 60 have many factors putting them at risk for falls. Older adults often have difficulty with sight, balance, and their ability to walk. People over age 60 also have heart disease or blood pressure challenges. A quickly changing blood pressure can cause a fall. Sources have reported that one-third of people over 60 in Singapore have fallen more than once.

If older adults fall, their injuries are more likely to lead to severe consequences. When a fall does occur to an older adult, it can also take an emotional toll. An older adult may feel embarrassed about the fall. If the fall results in an injury or restrictions, they may resent their lost autonomy; an older adult may feel frightened of a future fall after a fall. This can lead to social withdrawal or depression.

Some risk factors of falls more likely to occur for the elderly include:

1 A History of Falling

Statistics show the risk of falling is higher for those who have previously lost. It’s unclear why this increased risk occurs, but statistics show this is true.

2 Difficulty walking

If you have difficulty walking, you are more likely to fall. You are also at risk if your shoes don’t have non-skid soles. If your balance is not good, your fall likelihood increases.

3 Poor Eyesight

It would be best if you saw hazards to avoid them. But if your eyesight is poor, you can miss things.

4 Dementia

There is an increase in dementia for people over age 60. Demeanor This confusion can cause poor judgment or the lack of ability to make good safety choices.

5 Hazards in the Home

Unfortunately, many older adults do not keep their homes well-repaired. If the furniture is broken or the floors need repair, these can cause falls. If there is poor electrical wiring, this can result in electrical shock.

6 Medication Interaction

Some of your medications may not be safe; when taken together. Check any new medicines- even over-the-counter meds with your pharmacist. Taking your blood pressure while your BP is too low can cause you to lose consciousness.

7 Incontinence

A puddle can increase your fall risk if you have difficulty holding your urine. An urgent need to use the bathroom may cause you to move too quickly.

Statistics show falls occur due to a combination of two or more factors.

To decrease the odds of falling, you can change your daily routine.

1 Check Your Eyesight

People over 60 have an increased risk for cataracts or glaucoma. Both conditions increase your risk of falling. It’s also important to regularly check your eyeglass prescription. The inability to see clearly may result in tripping.

2 Review Your Medications

Many medications can affect your heart, lungs, or balance. Those changes can increase the risk of falls. A combination of those drugs can increase that risk.

3 Keep yourself fit

Participation in physical activities regularly can increase strength and balance. Some examples can include tai chi, wheelchair exercises, and golf. A short daily walk can also be helpful.

A doctor or local senior center can give seniors ideas for other safe activities for senior citizens.

In addition to improving your health, significant modifications can be made in your home.

1 Keep the Rugs Still

Use non-skid backing tape on the back of the rugs in your home. You could also choose not to use mats on your floors.

2 Cover the Cords

Could you place tape over the cords to your appliances or coil them near the wall? This will minimize the possibility of tripping over cords – or worse.

3 Make Your Steps Safe

Keep your steps in good repair to ensure safety when going upstairs.

4 Keep Furniture Simple

When you’re walking around in your home, you want to keep the path clear. Keep your furniture in a pattern that includes minimal clustering.

5 Keep the Shower Safe

You can install grab bars and safety tape on your shower and bathroom floor.

6 Turn on the Lights

Be sure your home has adequate lighting. This is especially important in entry areas – and in the bathroom.

Talk to a doctor or health care professional for more ways to reduce the odds of falling. We hope you enjoyed and learned something by reading this article – “How to Prevent Falls in the Home by the Elderly?“!