Are Your Parents at Risk for Falls?
Falls are not a normal part of aging though according to the World Health Organization, globally falls are a major public health problem. One out of four adults fall each year but only half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles the chance of falling again. If your mom or dad has expressed a concern about falling, it is important to take steps to reduce their risk.
The fear of falling for older adults is real, even if they haven’t experienced one. A recent study found that 71% of older Americans are concerned about falls, and 42% reported having a personal experience with a fall in their household. It may make an older adult hesitant to walk, take part in social activities, or even do a routine task like shopping. But remaining active is an essential step in staying healthy and preventing falls.
There are common conditions that can contribute to falls. These risk factors include:
- Vision issues
- Conditions like diabetes, heart disease or thyroid issues which may affect balance
- Reflexes that have slowed with age
- Foot pain
- Age-related loss of muscle mass
- Lower body weakness
- Cognitive impairment or dementia
- Deficiency of Vitamin D
- Unsafe footwear
- Challenges with balance
- Difficulty walking
- Changes in gait
- Medicines that have side effects like confusion or dizziness
- Environmental hazards like uneven steps, clutter, or throw rugs that are unsecured
One risk factor or a combination can set the stage for a fall. There are ways to reduce the fall risk for your mom or dad:
- Encourage balance and strength training exercises through physical therapy, yoga, Pilates, or tai chi.
- Help review their home for fall risks and take the steps to enhance security, including fixing broken steps, tacking down throw rugs and ensuring proper lighting.
- Vision and hearing tests can help determine if there is an increased or changed risk of falling.
- Even light exercise can improve muscles and build strength, as well as encourage flexibility in the joints and ligaments.
- Check on the side effects of all medication they take, focusing on any that promote dizziness or sleepiness.
- Set a sleep schedule. When a person is tired, they are more likely to fall.
- Review their footwear. Do the shoes fit properly? Invest in low heeled, non skid, rubber soled shoes.
- Encourage mom or dad to stand slowly. When standing fast, blood pressure can plummet, which will cause unsteadiness.
Another valuable step you can take is to enlist the help of a senior care advisor if a parent has expressed concerns about falling. CarePatrol Senior Care Advisors can help your family determine what level of care your loved one needs. This valuable information is the first step in searching for the right care options tailored to your parent. Our unique, three step discovery process will give you the information you need to make an informed decision while keeping your family safe. And best of all, our advisory services are available to your family at absolutely no cost.
Reach out today and enjoy the feeling of knowing that Mom and Dad are safe.