Simple Tips for Fall Prevention
Assistive equipment can offer extra support and stability to aid movement
Falls are a common cause of injury and are mostly associated with old age, though they can happen anytime. Taking a spill can greatly impact a person’s quality of life and independence, depending on the extent of injuries sustained. However, incorporating a few lifestyle changes can help mitigate the risk of falling.
Here are tips helpful in fall prevention:
Review medication with a healthcare provider
It’s not uncommon for older adults to have more than one prescription due to the health issues that arise in old age. Even so, taking different medications at the same time can have negative effects, such as dizziness, fatigue, and sleepiness, which increase the risk of falling. Therefore, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for proper dose recommendations or weaning off.
Use assistive devices
Senior adults are prone to experiencing muscle loss and other health problems, such as weak joints. These issues diminish their strength and affect their body coordination, increasing their chances of falling. Assistive equipment can offer extra support and stability to aid movement. Examples of support equipment are:
Canes and walkers
Wheelchairs
Handrails on stairways
Crutches
Grab bars in showers
Wear non-slip shoes
Changing footwear is key in preventing falls, especially for older adults and children. High heels, non-treaded shoes, and floppy slippers can result in stumbling or slipping, leading to severe falls. Well-fitting shoes with solid, non-skid soles are crucial to preventing falls and injuries, ensuring a good grip on the ground. They also reduce joint pain and stress.
Keep the house well-lit
Proper lighting inside and outside the house is essential for security and preventing dangerous falls. A well-lit house allows one to find their way around without knocking into or stumbling over things. To ensure there’s enough visibility and a lower risk of falls, strategize an in-home lighting plan that includes the following:
Place lights in hallways and stairways.
Store flashlights in easy-access spots in case of power blackouts.
Install light switches near room entrances.
Place a lamp near the bed for night visits to the bathroom.
Install motion-activated lights.
Declutter the house
Decluttering the house involves arranging things in specific places to minimize the risk of falling or tripping. Some of the decluttering tasks include:
Tucking wires and electrical cords against walls to avoid tripping.
Creating clear walkways around furniture.
Securing carpets firmly with non-slip pads.
Doing away with loose rugs.
Putting books, clothes, shoes, and papers in designated spaces.
Walk safely
Most falls that cause life-altering or life-threatening injuries are entirely preventable. Simple tasks and safety tips might be all it takes to minimize the risk of falling. However, a therapist is needed for those who’ve already sustained a fall and have limited mobility. Contact a local rehabilitation service for a customized therapy plan to get moving again.
Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.
