How to Prevent Elders from falling

Accidents can change the lives of the elderly, affecting their movement and health. Therefore, preventing the elderly from falling is very vital. How to strengthen home protection? Buy medical supplies online and find out more here.

Factors causing falls in Seniors

Although falls can occur for any reason, there are many main reasons for the same for elderly community.

  • Health factors. These are for individuals and include muscle weakness, dementia, poor vision, low body strength, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, Parkinsonism, problems related to foot and side effects of drugs.
  • Deficiencies Of Nutrition and Vitamin. Vitamin D deficiency and calcium deficiency adversely affect bone density and muscle density.  This in turn increases the risk of falls. Rest of the factors include malnutrition, dehydration, and no or less physical exercise.
  • Environment. Sundries, carpets, unfit shoes, icy and/or slippery sidewalks, and improper use of walkers can all lead to accidents.
  • Triggers. Impromptu events such as hypoglycaemia in an individual with diabetes can lead to dizziness.

What Happens After a Senior Falls?

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  • Bone Fractures

The fracture can be a partial or complete fracture of the bone. Fractures occur due to the effects of minimal trauma caused by high strength, pressure or weak bones.

  • Head Injuries

The fall can cause skull fractures, scalp wounds, concussions and other traumatic brain injuries. Older adults may also have hematomas or bleeding in the brain.

  • Psychological Distress

Older adults feel anxious and depressed after they fall. They may also develop Sundowners syndrome, especially if they suffer from dementia. Symptoms of Sundowners syndrome are insomnia, mood swings, confusion, aggression, restlessness, etc. 

Prevent Falls at Home

Most falls happen at home, so safety must be improved and the elderly must be protected from accidental injuries. Here are some techniques to do so.

  • Physical Activity

Physical activity might be used as a single intervention or as part of the multi-factor approach. Many exercises such as yoga, balance exercises, and balance exercises and tai chi, can improve the stability and strength in elderlies.

  • Proper Nutrition

Nutrition can improve muscle mass, increase bone density, provide energy and improve vision. Your diet should be high in nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, proteins, etc to help build muscle. Drink enough water to stay hydrated.

  • Good Lighting Installation

Poor vision increases the risk factor for the elderly, and aiding them with good lighting can lead to easy movement, eliminating factors like anxiety, fear etc. While choosing a decent lighting option, try considering the color, adjustability and the accessibility-the switch be at hand for the elders.

  • Bed Rails

Bed rails proves to be highly beneficial for adults, children and the disabled. Installing bed rails helps keep the elderly safe, prevent them from falls, and help easy locate and get on and off the bed. It also aids a sense of comfort and security for anxious elderly people.

  • Bed Alarms 

Although bed alarms cannot and do not prevent falls, they are equipped with motion sensors so they can warn caregivers of any imminent danger and/or movement in the bed.

  • Install slide rails in the bathroom

The grip is easy to fix in any position you need and provides a firm grip. Bathing is a major risk for the elderly, especially those with physical balance and mobility problems.

Shower chair and transport seat

Shower chairs are a must for the elderly and the disabled. They make bathing sessions for them more comfortable. These enhance stability, security and support.

  • Reducing Slipping with Non-Slip Shower Mats

Non-slip shower mats are placed on the bathtub and/or shower to avoid accidents and increase safety.

Use Walking Aids

Walkers help distribute weight, reduce pressure on your feet, and improve the stability and balance amongst elderlies. The type of walker you choose will depend on the purpose

Suitable shoes and socks

Slippery soles and high heels can cause you to lose your balance hence tripping or falling may occur. Choose shoes with non-slip soles, belts or Velcro fasteners from a wide range of onlinemedical products

Participate in the fall prevention program

You can choose independent intervention or the one with multifunctional intervention. No matter which program you choose, make sure it meets the three components: behaviour change, education, and exercise.

Fall Recovery

Getting Up After a Fall

  • Find something strong, such as a chair or chair.
  • Climb up furniture or down stairs
  • Hold the body with both hands to support the body
  • Stand up slowly, sit down and rest for a few minute

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