What to Know About Fall Prevention and Home Management
Fall prevention and home management aims to create a safer environment at home while helping people maintain their independence and safety. As we age or become ill, falls become more likely, and are a leading cause of injury in older adults, making it critical to ensure your home is as safe and secure as possible.
Installing grab bars and handrails, minimizing trip hazards, and enhancing lighting are a few basic fall prevention and home management techniques. People who are more likely to fall may also need to utilize special equipment such as fall prevention monitors, safety floor mats, shower chairs, sensor pads for wheelchairs, gait belts, and non-slip socks.
How to Choose Fall Prevention Products:
When choosing fall prevention products, it is important to consider the individual’s needs and the environment in which the products will be used, as well as the user's age, mobility, and cognitive abilities. Make sure to read the labels carefully and follow the instructions for use and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the products are appropriate for your loved ones needs.
Shop by Room
Some caregivers prefer to outfit one room at a time, starting with wherever their loved one spends the most time. If your loved one spends most of their time in their room, think about the paths they most often take - maybe to the bathroom for a shower, or to the kitchen to enjoy a meal with the family - and outfit those spaces first.
Shop by Highest Risk
Another option is to start by protecting your loved one from moments that are the highest risk. Many falls happen in the bathroom, especially if your loved one is bathing themselves. Start by purchasing a shower bench or bath chair. Falls also happen at night - getting nightlights can provide paths of light for your loved ones to see by.
FAQ's
What equipment is used to prevent falls?
Bed rails, ramps for wheelchairs, and grab bars are some fall prevention products. Rugs, carpets, and non-slip shoes are some other options.
Do socks prevent falls?
Slipper socks are designed with skid-resistant rubber treads on both sides of the sock and help prevent falls better than regular socks.
What causes falls in older adults?
Falls in older adults can be caused by many factors, including muscle weakness, balance problems, vision problems, and medications.
What are some exercises I can do to help improve my balance and reduce my risk of falling?
You can practice a variety of activities and exercises to increase your balance and lower your chance of falling. Try heel to toe walking or standing on one leg, or exercises, like Tai Chi or Yoga, which can be performed in a class or facility.
What are 5 ways to prevent falls in homes?
There are several easy strategies and affordable products available to help people with limited mobility become more independent and reduce the list of potential hazards. Consider these strategies:
- Use a night light to help you see where you are walking.
- Remove clutter from your floors.
- Use non-slip mats in your bathtub and on your shower floor.
- Use a step stool to reach high objects instead of standing on a chair or another person.
- Wear shoes that fit well and have good traction.
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