According to the CDC, each year, more than one in four adults, 65 or older will fall. Not only are seniors more vulnerable to falling, but they are also more at risk of sustaining a severe injury due to a falling accident. Here are some ways you can help your elderly loved one prevent falls and stay safe.

What Causes Seniors to Fall?

The following are some common contributing factors that could cause an elderly senior to fall:

• Not being physically active – Seniors who are not as active and physically mobile are also less physically fit. Being sedentary can put you at risk of losing muscle, a decrease in bone mass, as well as loss of coordination and balance. 
• A decline in vision – As we get older, vision can become impaired. When we don’t see obstacles or potential hazards clearly, it can be challenging to get out of the way and avoid a fall. 
• Hazards in the home – Many obstacles can be found in the home. For example, clutter and loose carpeting are often culprits to an elderly senior having a fall accident. 

How to Prevent Falls

The following are some ways you can help your elderly loved one stay safe: 

• Exercise – Encouraging your elderly loved one to exercise regularly and be active can be beneficial to boosting flexibility, coordination, and balance. 
• Conduct a Home Audit – Thoroughly inspect your elderly loved one’s home and look for any hazards. As you find obstacles such as loose floorboards and unsecured area rugs, repair or remove the problem as soon as possible. If your loved one has mobility issues, you may need to make some modifications to the living space. For example, raising a toilet seat or putting grab bars in the shower. 
• Invest in sensible shoes – Check to ensure that your elderly senior is wearing proper shoes. They should fit properly and not slide off or be loose when walking. Shoes with non-skid soles are the best choice.

When It’s Time for Assisted Living

If the possibility of having your elderly loved one live with you if they are having mobility issues, then assisted living may be the answer. Not only can an assisted living community allow your elderly senior to feel a sense of independence, but it can also help them to stay safe. 

The Arbors Assisted Living is a community that encourages family members and other caretakers to be involved in their senior loved one’s care. Our goal is to help enhance the quality of life for our residents. Contact us for more information on how we can help assist you with the care of your elderly loved one.