3 Steps to Prevent Falls in the Home

Older adults are more likely to fall for a variety of reasons, included decreased mobility and balance. Certain medications and medical conditions can also increase the risk.

But our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare wants you to know that you can take steps to help prevent falls in older loved ones. By taking certain precautions, you can help decrease fall risk.

Simple Steps to Prevent Falls

Let’s take a look at some ways you reduce the risk of falling in an older loved one.

First, you want to make sure you are keeping an open dialogue with your loved one about falling. Is he or she worried about falling? If so, why? Is it due to certain medications or a lack of mobility?

By knowing where the fear of falling lies, you can help your loved one improve his or her confidence so that fear doesn’t stand in the way of safely getting around.

Rebuilding confidence can be as simple as introducing exercises like tai chi, which can help older adults regain mobility and balance.

Second, if it’s been over a year since your loved one’s last eye exam, it’s time for a checkup. As we age, so does our eyesight, and diminished vision can make walking more difficult, increasing fall risk.

If your loved one is experiencing vision problems or has problems adjusting to different lighting, talk with a doctor about what can be done.

Finally, take a look around the home environment. Clear the home of clutter, particularly on the floor. Make certain that rugs are adhered to the floor and not loose, and install handrails along stairways and in the bathroom. Also ensure that the entire home and outdoor space are well-lit and easy to navigate.

Do you need additional help caring for an aging loved one? Our in-home care providers at Qualicare can help improve quality of life for you and your loved one.