Are you considering an assisted living care home for your loved one? Do you constantly fret over their well-being, particularly the risk of falls? It’s a common concern for many family members.
Assisted living care communities, like The Oaks at Inglewood in Stockton, CA, are expertly designed to minimize accidents and enhance accessibility. But what if your loved one is still living independently?
Let’s discuss practical tips and strategies to help you reorganize and adapt a senior’s home to reduce the risk of falls without compromising their comfort or independence.
We’ll delve into room-by-room suggestions, easy modifications, and lifestyle adjustments that can make a significant difference.
Additionally, we’ll give you a glimpse into life at The Oaks at Inglewood, where we prioritize residents’ well-being and freedom while offering a supportive environment.
Let’s explore how to create a more accommodating living space for your elderly loved ones, whether they’re at home or considering a move to an assisted living care community.
The Risk of Falls Among Seniors
Falls among older adults are far from uncommon. They occur with alarming frequency. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 36 million falls are reported annually among older adults.
Over one in four people 65 years or older fall each year. Fall risk increases with age and can seriously affect overall health and well-being.
Why Seniors Have a Higher Tendency to Tumble
As we age, our bodies naturally undergo certain physical and cognitive changes that can increase the likelihood of falls.
Reduced muscle strength and poor balance control can make stabilizing oneself and preventing a fall difficult. Vision loss, another common age-related change, can also contribute to an increased risk of falling, impairing an individual’s ability to navigate their environment without incident.
Many seniors take medications that can have side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, further increasing the risk of falls. It’s essential to be aware of these potential risks and to take preventative measures to mitigate them.
The Impact of Falls on Seniors’ Health and Wellbeing
The impact of falls on seniors is far-reaching and includes:
- Fractures
- Spine and hip injuries
- Head traumas
They can also have a significant psychological impact.
Fear of falling can lead to decreased activity levels and social isolation. Both scenarios negatively affect a senior’s quality of life. This fear can create a cycle where the less a person engages in physical activity, the weaker their muscles become, thus increasing their risk of falling.
Additionally, falls can lead to a loss of independence, causing feelings of anxiety and depression. This psychological impact can be just as damaging as physical injuries, if not more so.
Understanding the seriousness of falls in older adults is crucial. By implementing preventative measures, we can help seniors maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life.
How to Keep Seniors on Their Feet
Like Alzheimer’s and dementia, falls are not part of normal aging. Use these tips when providing home care for a loved one. Seniors who stay upright can avoid nursing homes and skilled nursing care facilities.
Reducing the risk is a collective effort. Following these tips help to encourage independence and significantly reduce accidents.
Clear Pathways
First and foremost, ensure there are clear pathways throughout the home. Start by eliminating clutter, loose rugs, or any obstacles that could potentially cause a trip-up. Not only will this make navigation easier, but it also reduces the likelihood of accidental bumps or falls.
Good Lighting
Good lighting is crucial in minimizing the risk of falls. Make sure all areas of the home are adequately lit, especially hallways, stairs, and entrances. Consider using nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms to aid navigation during nighttime hours.
Non-Slip Surfaces
Use non-slip mats or rugs to prevent slips, particularly in areas prone to moisture, like the bathroom or kitchen. These can provide extra grip and stability, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
Sturdy Furniture
Furniture arrangements can significantly influence mobility within the house. Arrange furniture in a way that provides clear walking paths and stability. Ensure chairs and tables are sturdy and within easy reach for support when needed.
Handrails and Grab Bars
Installing handrails on both sides of staircases and grab bars in bathrooms near the toilet, shower, and bathtub can offer additional support. These fixtures can go a long way in preventing falls and boosting confidence in movement.
Organized Belongings
Keeping frequently used items within easy reach can prevent overreaching or the need for step stools. Store sometimes used items in lower cabinets and drawers for easier access.
Declutter
A clutter-free space is more navigable and mobility friendly. Minimize unnecessary items in the living area to reduce obstacles and enhance the visibility of surroundings.
Proper Footwear
Encourage the senior in your life to wear well-fitting, non-slip footwear with good support. This tip applies both inside and outside the house. Proper footwear can drastically reduce the chances of slips and falls.
Secure Cords and Wires
Ensure cords and wires are tucked away securely to prevent them from becoming tripping hazards in high-traffic areas.
Regular Cleaning
A clean home is a happy place. Promptly clean up spills to avoid creating slippery surfaces. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep the environment hazard-free.
Medication Management
Organizing medications can help avoid confusion and reduce the risk of medication-related falls. Utilize pill organizers and adhere to dosing schedules to maintain consistency.
Regular Exercise
Encourage regular exercise that focuses on improving balance and strength. This practice can help seniors maintain their mobility and ultimately reduce the risk of falls.
Eye and Hearing Check-ups
Regular eye and hearing check-ups can enhance a senior’s awareness of their surroundings, reducing the chances of trips or falls due to sensory issues.
Home Modifications
If necessary, consider making home modifications such as installing ramps, widening doorways, or creating a bedroom on the main floor. These adjustments can accommodate physical limitations and improve accessibility.
Regular Check-ins
Stay connected and check in regularly. Falls can sometimes be indicative of underlying health issues. Regular communication can help identify and address any concerns early on.
How Assisted Living Communities Help Lower Fall Risk
Our award-winning care services at The Oaks at Inglewood are tailored to meet each resident’s unique needs. We provide the right balance of care and supervision to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident in their surroundings.
Unlike traditional nursing homes, our residential care community is designed to feel just like home. Each resident has a private apartment decorated to their liking, providing a sense of familiarity and comfort. Our team is dedicated to keeping residents’ homes clean and clear.
Common areas are spacious and inviting, encouraging social interaction and engagement.
Our assisted living prioritizes residents’ well-being. We understand the importance of maintaining strength and balance, so we offer a range of activities promoting physical and social health.
We believe that long-term care services should extend beyond healthcare. Personal care services, such as help with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, are provided to ensure residents can maintain their independence while receiving the support they need.
Long-term care at The Oaks at Inglewood goes beyond providing health care. It’s about creating a community where seniors feel supported and valued. We’re here to provide the care services your loved ones need in an environment they’ll love to call home.
Minimize Worry With An Assisted Living Care Home
Assisted living offers a high quality of living. Our team can’t wait to introduce you to a hassle-free lifestyle. Contact us today to arrange a tour!