The CDC says that 25% of adults 65 or older report falling every year; considering that this is just the official numbers, chances are, many more seniors fall yearly, which is a concerning fact.
You may live at home independently, but all it takes is a small misstep to trip, slip, fall, and then suffer from massive injuries. Some (such as hip fractures) may be so bad that your health is forever impacted, and you don't want that to happen.
The good news is that you can lessen your risks by learning fall prevention strategies. Interested in hearing more? Then keep reading. Here are the steps you should take to achieve maximum senior safety in Hockessin, DE.
You've probably carefully chosen your property based on the apartment design, which allows for independent living wellness. However, what you do with the space will change your fall risk significantly.
It's important to keep up with tidiness, as it's one of the best defenses against falls. You should clear walkways by removing:
In addition, make sure that every room, hallway, and stairway has sufficient lighting, especially at night. To prevent accidents during late-night trips, install nightlights in your bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways.
With memory care safety, you'll often see small yet effective adjustments, and you can use these in your own home too.
Installations you should consider are:
While these modifications may make your residence appear different at first, ultimately, they'll allow you to remain independent while reducing your risk of accidents.
According to the American Heart Association, for older adults, every 500 additional steps taken daily is associated with lower heart risk. Yet, without the right footwear, not only can it be uncomfortable and painful, but you might even slip and fall, which may prevent you from taking any steps at all.
So an essential part of mobility support for aging adults is the shoes they wear. With the right shoes, you'll find balance and stability.
You should avoid slippers without grip or shoes with worn-out soles. Instead, choose supportive shoes with non-slip bottoms, low heels, and good cushioning.
Do note that walking barefoot or wearing only socks increases your chance of slipping. So while it feels cozy to do so in your home, it's better to keep sturdy indoor shoes or non-slip socks handy.
Regular exercise is excellent for healthy aging. It can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, which are the three key factors in fall prevention.
You don't have to go all out either. Simple activities you can do are:
Even just practicing standing on one foot while holding onto a sturdy chair can improve your stability!
In general, you should aim to stay active most days of the week. But it's essential to start at your own pace and consult your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.
One of our best assisted living fall tips is to manage your medications carefully. You may not be aware of this, but some medications, or the combinations of medications, can cause:
It's vital that you speak with your doctor regularly and review your medications. Ask about possible side effects, and never stop or change medications without their guidance.
Otherwise, keep a medication schedule and use pill organizers to help avoid confusion. That way, you're always sure you've taken a dose and don't double up.
Both vision and hearing play major roles in balance and fall prevention.
Schedule annual eye exams and update your glasses prescription as needed. In addition, ask about treatments for conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.
Plus, get regular hearing exams too. If you get hearing aids, wear them consistently and make sure they're properly fitted and maintained.
Dehydration and poor nutrition can cause you to feel weak and fatigued, as well as dizzy. WebMD says you should aim for 6-8 glasses of fluid a day, and you should drink before you feel thirsty (the thirst sensation is dulled in seniors).
You should also eat a balanced diet. To keep your muscles strong and your bones healthy in case of a fall, you should have a diet rich in:
Often, falls happen when people feel hurried. For example, they may rush to answer the phone or get out of bed too quickly to answer the door.
It's absolutely crucial that you move slowly and carefully, as this gives your body time to adjust and prevents sudden dizziness. If you're standing up from sitting or lying down, pause for a moment before walking, as this will let your balance stabilize.
Independence is important, especially for seniors. But safety comes first.
Don't ever be afraid to ask your family members, friends, or neighbors for help if you need it. For instance, you may need assistance with:
Staying socially connected not only ensures you've got help when you need it, but it can also boost your mood.
Falls no longer have to be something you fear. With these fall prevention strategies, you can regain confidence in not only your own body, but also the surroundings you're in.
So don't let the fear of falls stop you from living your life. You're now set to conquer the world and live life to the fullest!
To request more information about senior living in Hockessin, DE, get in touch with us now. The Summit has three fully-stocked libraries with comfortable seating so that our residents can spend hours getting lost in reading their books.