Perhaps you’ve been by a senior loved one’s side at the hospital or doctor’s office and witnessed the medical personnel attaching a brightly colored “FALL RISK” band to his or her wrist. Alerting those providing care to this risk allows extra safety precautions to be taken during medical procedures. But did you know that routine, daily life can pose a fall risk threat to those diagnosed with the following conditions?
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis, a bone density disorder that can also increase a person’s chances of fracturing a hip
- Vertigo
- Cerebrovascular insufficiency
- Neurologic disability (stroke)
- Postural hypotension (sudden decrease in blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disease
- Medications that cause dizziness
According to the CDC, 20-30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries, including fractures or head traumas. Many people who fall, even if they are not injured, develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause them to limit their activities, which leads to reduced mobility and loss of physical fitness, and in turn increases their actual risk of falling. The CDC’s recommendations to reduce fall risk include:
- Exercising regularly – Tai Chi programs are especially beneficial
- Having a doctor or pharmacist review medications for dizziness/drowsiness interactions
- Schedule eye exams at least annually
- Reduce tripping hazards in the home
At Live Free Home Healthcare, we’re doing all we can each day to reduce fall risks for the seniors in our care. Our award-winning, specially trained New Hampshire caregivers utilize professional safety precautions in bathing, transferring, and assisting with walking to keep them safe and secure. For additional tips on preventing falls in the home, we’ve compiled a fall prevention tip sheet that we encourage you to read through, download, print and save. And contact us any time for more tips or to inquire about our New Hampshire in-home senior care services.