5 Tips for Seniors to Avoid Falling Accidents

If you have an aging relative you may be wondering how to protect them from the dangers of falling accidents. This is not an unwarranted concern as falls can cause fatal and non-fatal injuries for seniors.

A fall can result in a number of serious injuries such as hip fractures, head injuries and broken bones. Nevertheless, it is also important to know that falling can have other impacts on the life of a senior. It can make them more fearful and prevent them from being active as they should be.

While most people feel safe in the comfort of their homes, this is where most of these accidents occur. Some of the most common causes of accidents are caused by unsafe stairs, electrical cords and slippery floors. If you have an aging relative it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid these accidents.

Furthermore, it is important to communicate their risks to them. This can go a long way in helping them to let go of their fears and help them live happy independent lives. Following are some important tips for avoiding fall accidents in seniors.

Discuss Their Current Health Conditions

The first step will be to communicate with them about their health and fully understand the problems they may be facing. Poor health is a leading cause of fall injuries. As people age, poor health can lead to a lack of coordination, balance and flexibility.

Furthermore, their vision may become impaired as well. This is why it is essential to know exactly what could prevent them from full functionality and increase the risk of these types of accidents. After you have spoken with them, see what treatments they are taking for their health. If they are not treating a particular aspect of poor health, encourage them to seek out medical attention.

Staying In The Moment

A senior should be careful not to let their mind wander if they are not 100% secure in their mobility.

For example, most accidents occur when seniors go up and down stairs.

Remind them to use the railings whenever they can. It is important to remain mentally present to remember to do this.

It is important to look around for potential obstacles and dangers in their vicinity. When going up or down stairs, a senior should use the banister when available. If they get dizzy while climbing the stairs, be sure to hold the rail tightly and take a deep breath till their coordination returns.

Stop Rushing

There is no reason to be in a hurry. Taking the time to go slow is important. After all, you don’t work so you have all the time in the world to get where you are going. This means that rushing is never essential. No matter how long it takes to get to your destination, be sure to take your time and go slowly.

Enlist The Help Of A Physical Therapist

Never forget the advantages of signing on with a qualified physical therapist. If your senior relative is grabbing onto furniture, walls and anything else to give them support, this is a good time to seek the help of a professional therapist.

Through specially planned physical exercise, a physical therapist can help improve the strength and mobility of an older person. It is also a good idea to use a cane or walker. This will provide more stability than grabbing a random object for support.

Light It Right

Finally, make sure that the entire home is well-lit. An illuminated environment makes it easier to notice electrical cords, the edge of the stairs and any obstacles that could spill the unwary senior. Take a moment to walk around the house and make sure all the lights are working well and have proper bulbs.

Finally

I hope this article helps to avoid some, if not all of the possible falls a senior may have.

To your continuing health,

Rich