As your loved one ages, they are at a higher risk of falling, especially if they live alone. Every year, 3 million seniors are treated for fall injuries in emergency departments across the country. A fall injury increases the risk of other health problems, injuries, and mental and physical health complications. Continue reading to learn more about the dangers of senior falls and expert fall prevention tips.
Dangers of Senior Falls
A fall can cause serious injury to seniors. They are more likely to experience broken bones and fractures, and they have a harder time healing from broken bones. If your senior loved one needs to undergo surgery for a broken bone, they are at a higher risk of post-surgical complications. Fall injuries can also affect their physical, mental, and emotional health and may lead to depression, anxiety, and isolation.
Why Falls Are More Common in Seniors
A senior experiences a fall every second of every day, and falls are the most common cause of injury and death in people over the age of 65. There are many factors that increase a senior’s risk of a fall: loss of muscle mass, poor nutrition, cognitive decline, mobility problems, illness, side effects from medication, failing eyesight, obstacles in the home, and more. Seniors are also much more likely to develop certain health problems like low blood pressure, vision and hearing loss, and diabetes, all of which can increase their risk of a fall.
Fall Prevention Tips
If your senior loved one lives alone, they are at an even higher risk of fall-related injuries. Luckily, you can take some preventive measures to reduce their risk at home. Here are our fall prevention tips for seniors:
- Have an expert assess your loved one’s home for health and safety issues, including tripping hazards.
- Install railings, grab bars, and other safety features in their home.
- Improve the lighting inside and outside of the home.
- Remove any obstacles that could cause your loved one to trip and fall.
- Hire a home health aide to keep them safe when you aren’t there.
- Talk to your loved one’s doctor about possible side effects from medication or health issues that could increase their risk of a fall.
- Encourage your loved one to stay active to improve their balance and muscle mass.
- Get them an assistive device like a cane or walker if they have mobility issues.
Explore Our Senior Care Services!
If your senior loved one is at risk of a fall and you think it’s time for them to transition into an assisted living or memory care facility, contact our team at Twin Town Villa. To learn more, contact us to schedule a tour of the community or call us at (218) 643-9542 with questions.