As we get older we often become less steady on our feet, Falling for seniors can be a big concern as injuries are difficult to bounce back from. Broken hips or other bones can mean a long recovery period and long-lasting effects.
There are steps you can take to make sure your senior is better prepared to avoid falls. Even a few small improvements can mean keeping their mobility and their independence.
Fall Safety Tips for Seniors
It doesn’t take much to knock anyone off their balance, so if we can take a few precautions, it may prevent ourselves or our loved ones from getting injured.
Proper Footwear
A great place to start is getting a few great pairs of sensible shoes. Loose-fitting shoes, shoes with high heels, or shoes with open toes or backs are not ideal for walking.
A comfortable shoe that fits properly is best. A shoe with a rubber or non-skid sole is best. If they don’t want to wear shoes in the house, find socks with non-skid bottoms.
Install Handrails
The best place to start is the tub or shower. People fall in the shower or bathtub so grab rails in the shower and beside the toilet are best. You can add non-slip stickers or mats in the tub, as well.
Handrails for the stairs are also recommended. Even if mobility isn’t a big issue, it is still a great idea to have them if the home has stairs. You can put them in your hallways, too.
Clear Clutter
Remove any type of boxes, furniture, or cords that can cause someone to trip. It can be difficult to maneuver around with a lot of extra stuff in the way. There needs to be a clear path to access all the rooms.
You can also tape down the corners of rugs that may stick up or roll up at the edges. If there is a pronounced edge to carpeting, cover it with another small rug or mat to make the area smooth
Regular Exercise
Muscles get soft when we don’t use them and this can lead to weakness and falls. Regular exercise, even just going for a walk is helpful in so many ways. It builds strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Watch Your Diet
Fresh fruits and vegetables plus a diet rich in calcium will help keep your bones stronger. Vitamin D and calcium can be found in many foods and supplements, and it’s free from the sun.
Watch Medications
Certain medications can come with all sorts of side effects. If your loved one seems dizzy, drowsy, or off balance, it should be addressed with their doctor. Sometimes certain medications can interfere with others being taken.
Get Regular Eye Exams
As we age our vision changes. Getting a new prescription for your glasses can make a big difference. Yearly eye checks can also detect other health concerns or vision issues.
Glasses can become scratched or ill-fitting over time. It’s best to make sure that they have the right prescription and that their glasses fit as they should and provide the vision care they need.
Avoid Alcohol
Be cautious with alcohol and seniors. Don’t allow them to walk on their own if they have had any alcohol. It’s fine if they are safe at home and being monitored by loved ones.
Fall Safety Tips for Seniors
We can’t be there every second of the day. Taking a few precautions can go a long way in preventing falls. You may want to consider a medical alert system for your loved one, as it brings peace of mind to you and to them.