Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, especially for those with impaired mobility. Fortunately, there are several effective steps families and carepartners can take to minimize these risks, allowing their loved ones to live safely and independently at home.
1. Assess the Living Space
A home environment assessment is a crucial first step in preventing falls. Walk through each room to identify and address potential hazards. NursePartners completes a complimentary free assessment before onboarding new clients. This is what we look for during these assessments:
- Clear clutter and remove any items on the floor that may obstruct walking paths.
- Secure loose rugs with double-sided tape or remove them altogether.
- Arrange furniture to create open, accessible pathways that accommodate mobility aids.
- Install adequate lighting, especially in hallways, staircases, and entrances, to improve visibility at night.
- Accessibility, ensure most used items are within reach.
2. Install Safety Features
Investing in a few key safety features can make a significant difference:
- Grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub provide stability.
- Non-slip mats in bathrooms reduce the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.
- Handrails on both sides of stairs offer balance and support.
- Raised toilet seats and shower chairs can help with stability during transfers.
3. Encourage the Use of Mobility Aids
Using mobility aids, like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, can improve stability and reduce the chance of falls. Make sure the device is correctly adjusted and encourage your loved one to use it consistently. Regular maintenance of these aids—such as ensuring that walker wheels and cane tips are in good condition—is also essential.
4. Promote Physical Activity
Maintaining physical strength is essential to preventing falls. Encourage activities that focus on balance, flexibility, and strength, such as gentle exercises, balance training, or even physical therapy. Activities like tai chi and chair yoga can be particularly beneficial, as they help enhance stability without putting strain on the joints.
5. Review Medications and Health Conditions
Some medications or health conditions can increase fall risk by causing dizziness or impaired balance. Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to minimize side effects and adjust dosages if needed. In addition, ensure routine eye exams, as vision changes can impact depth perception and balance. If you do not have a good relationship with your provider, either establish it now or find a new one.
6. Provide Emergency Preparedness Tools
Even with precautions, falls can still happen. Prepare for emergencies by providing easy-to-access tools, like:
- Medical alert systems or wearable alarms, so they can call for help if needed.
- Cell phones or other devices within reach, so they can quickly reach family members or emergency services.
Implementing these fall-prevention strategies can go a long way in supporting a safer and more comfortable home environment for older adults with impaired mobility. Regular reassessment and adjustments based on their changing needs are essential to maintaining an environment that fosters independence while minimizing risks.
NursePartners manages the care for older adults in the comfort in their homes. This includes regular visits to monitor the level of care being provided and reassessments of the home environment. Want to learn more? Call us today at 610-323-9800.