September is National Fall Prevention Month, to coincide with the start of the fall/autumn season. Falls are often the reason why seniors end up in the hospital. With so many situations where falls can be prevented, it’s worth the time to check and make sure the seniors you know are safe in their homes, nursing homes or while out and about.
Check on medications
Not only do medications affect each person individually, some medications can affect older people differently from the young. The elderly also tend to take more medications, which can lead to un-intended and sometimes dangerous drug interactions. The side effects of these medications can lead to dizziness, or confusion, both states which can creat a higher risk of falling. Caregivers should be certain to go over, and repeat if necessary, all medications their caree is taking to doctors, nurses and pharmacists. You never know who is going to catch an adverse combination.
Solve any incontinence issues
A common time when seniors fall is when they’re trying to get to the bathroom. The sudden urge to go and a diminished ability to walk can lead to a fall. Not only is it important to make sure that all paths to the restroom in the senior’s home are clear, incontinence problems should be addressed and solutions found. If the senior can wear a pad or a brief, then the need to get to the restroom quickly is mitigated. Additionally, nighttime falls are common, when the light is low and the senior may be disoriented. Sometimes using incontinence supplies only at night can solve this problem.
Help encourage balance
Physical therapy can be one way to help an elderly person regain their balance, especially after an injury or illness. Another way can be to try exercises that encourage balance, such as Tai Chi. Or simple stretches and strengthening exercises to make sure those muscles are there when needed.
To find more information and more ways to prevent falls, you can check out this National Council on Aging Page. And let us know in the comments how you prevent falls for your senior!