How Can You Protect Your Loved One From a Fall?

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of injury among Canadian seniors? In fact, 20 to 30% of seniors experience at least one fall each year. 

Our team of in-home care providers at Qualicare North York is here to help you understand more about your loved one’s fall risk, as well as ways to prevent a fall from occurring.

What Causes Seniors to Fall?

Medical conditions are the main cause of falls among the elderly. Three conditions, especially, have been known to cause more falls in seniors:

• Heart disease
• Dementia
• Low blood pressure

However, medical conditions are not the only reason why seniors fall. The wrong footwear, loose rugs, icy sidewalks and even diminished balance can all contribute to falls. Therefore, it is important to take all precautions when trying to prevent an older adult from experiencing a fall.

How Can a Fall Affect a Senior?

Even just one fall can cause a senior to experience disability or even death. More than 87% of fractures that occur in the elderly happen because of a fall. 

Therefore, it is extremely important for precautions to be taken in order to prevent injury or a more serious injury from occurring in your elderly loved one.

How Can Falls Be Prevented?

Fortunately, most falls can be prevented among the elderly. You’ll first want to evaluate your loved one’s home.

Start by making sure all clutter is kept off the floor, which can cause a loved one to trip and fall. In addition, non-slip shoes or socks should be worn at all times, and proper lighting should be used to brighten hallways, stairways and rooms so things can be easily seen.

You should also install handrails and grab bars in strategic places inside the home, including both sides of stairs and in the bathroom. These can be especially helpful in aiding an unsteady older adult who’s moving around.

Are you looking for someone to help care for your loved one in the comfort of home? Contact our in-home care providers at Qualicare North York to learn how we can help!