The Importance of Assessing the Fall Risk for Seniors
Senior Care in Hunterdon, NJ
As people age, the potential of falling and causing serious injury or even death increases; however, there are some individuals that are more at risk than others. This is why it is essential that a fall risk assessment is completed on all seniors and action taken if needed. While elderly care providers understand that minimizing fall risks, such as cords, loose carpeting, and dark areas is essential, there may still be other risk factors that can impact the potential for a senior to fall.
Vision
For seniors who have a difficult time seeing, the risk of falling is increased. This is why it is essential that family members or elderly care providers make annual appointments for the senior to have their vision checked. This will help to reduce the chance they will fall due to bad vision.
Balance
Does the senior seem unsteady on their feet? Do they have issues staying balanced when moving from one surface to another? If unsteadiness is an issue, then implementation of walking aids, such as a walker or cane should be considered in order to minimize the potential of a fall.
Medications
Another element that can impact a senior’s fall risk is certain medications. There are certain types of medications that can increase the chances of a senior falling. Also, if the senior is on more than one of these medications at a time, then their risk of falling is further increased. Changing medication can also cause a number of side effects, such as unsteadiness and dizziness. It is important for the in home elder care provider to take special precautions the first week after changing medication to ensure that a fall does not occur. It is important to talk to discuss this with the senior’s doctor.
Fall history
Another thing to consider is if the senior has falling more than once in the prior three months. If so, they are at an even higher chance of falling again.
The good news is that there are a number of things that family members and elderly care providers can do to help minimize the potential of a fall, even if the senior is at high risk due to other factors. Some of these things include:
• Removing any loose rugs
• Installing night lights in dark areas
• Installing grab bars in the bathroom
• Using nonskid rubber mats
• Providing shoes with nonskid soles
• Removing clutter from walkways
The fact is that it is often up to the elderly care provider to ensure that the senior’s living conditions are safe and hazard free. This is one of the many benefits of investing in at home elderly care services. It ensures that every senior is safe and taken care of, even when family members are unable to be around to do the job themselves.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional senior care in Hunterdon NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us Today (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534
Source
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