Fall Prevention Strategies for Seniors in Chelmsford, MA

Written By: Summer Place
Fall Prevention Strategies for Seniors in Chelmsford, MA

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of non-fatal and fatal injuries in people over the age of 65. A serious fall can lead to a head injury, hip fracture, hospitalization, or death. Falls can limit mobility, making it hard for an older adult to participate in their normal activities. 

At Summer Place in beautiful Chelmsford, MA, the health and safety of every resident are our primary concerns. Taking the time to reduce the risk of falling can help seniors maintain their health and independence for as long as possible.

Here are some fall prevention strategies for seniors.

See Your Healthcare Provider

A good first step is to make an appointment with your doctor. They can help you assess your risk of falling and offer senior safety tips for avoiding falls in seniors. Your doctor may want to discuss the following:

Your Current Medications

Bring a list of all current medications and supplementsyou take. Your doctor can review your medications and evaluate the side effects that could contribute to your risk of falling. Your doctor may consider whether it's possible to wean you off medication that makes you tired or sleepy, such as antihistamines, sedatives, or some antidepressants.

Previous Falls

Your doctor will consider your fall history. You can prepare by writing down the details of any falls you remember. Consider instances where you almost fell but someone intervened to help or you were able to regain your balance. These details can help your doctor identify the right fall prevention activities for you.

Health History

Some eye and ear conditions can increase your risk of falling. Be prepared to talk about your health issues, including any problems with balance. Consider whether you have any shortness of breath, joint pain, dizziness, or numbness in your feet or legs. Your doctor may evaluate your gait, balance, and muscle strength.

Stay Active 

Physical activity can help older adults lower their risk of falling. Some balance exercises for seniors include:

  • Walking
  • Tai chi
  • Swimming
  • Yoga
  • Dancing
  • Light weightlifting

These activities can reduce your risk of falls by improving balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility. If you have difficulty exercising, your doctor may recommend physical therapy.

A physical therapist can assess your physical limitations and help you strengthen your body and improve your balance. Regular physical activity is excellent for your mental and physical well-being. 

Remove Clutter and Other Hazards

Look around your home to identify potential fall hazards. Some things you can do to reduce your risk of falling include:

  • Remove boxes, electrical cords, and clutter from walkways
  • Move coffee tables and other furniture from high-traffic areas
  • Repair any loose floorboards or carpeting
  • Secure area rugs with double-sided tape or remove loose rugs
  • Clean any spilled liquids right away
  • Store dishes, clothing, and other necessities in easy reach
  • Use a bath seat for your safety while showering
  • Use a nonslip mat in the tub or shower

If you have been collecting items for years, it may be time to clear the clutter. Identify items to throw away, give away, or sell. This can make navigating your home safer and easier.

Light Up Your Home

Inadequate lighting is a fall hazard. It's crucial to keep your home or apartment brightly lit. This helps you see better and avoid trips and falls in your living space. Some independent living safely tips include:

  • Use night lights in the bathroom, bedroom, and hallway
  • Place a lamp by your bed for easy access
  • Clear paths to each light switch in your home
  • Turn the light on before going up or down the stairs
  • Keep a flashlight handy in case of a power outage

Use Assistive Devices 

Your doctor may recommend using a cane or walker for stability. Other assistive devices that can help you avoid falls include:

  • Nonslip treads for stairs
  • Handrails on each side of the stairway
  • Raised toilet seats
  • Hand-held shower nozzle
  • Sturdy seat for the shower or bathtub
  • Grab bars in the shower or tub

Your doctor may refer you to an occupational therapist. They can help you identify hazards in your home and brainstorm some fall prevention strategies. Many solutions are simple and economical. Major changes may require a larger investment. Investing in fall prevention is an investment in your health, safety, and independence.

Wear Sensible Shoes

Consider the shoes you typically wear. Do they feel comfortable and help you maintain your balance? High heels, floppy slippers, and slick soles can make you stumble or slip as you walk. Invest in a pair of flat, well-fitting shoes with non-skid soles. The right pair of shoes can help you walk steadily and even reduce foot and joint pain.

Get Vision and Hearing Screens

If you wear glasses, make sure your prescription is up to date. The wrong prescription strength or lens tint can lead to trips and falls. This can be especially dangerous in dark areas of your home or yard.

A simple solution is to have an annual eye exam and get new glasses when your prescription changes. Bifocals are necessary for many older adults, but can make climbing stairs more difficult. If you need bifocals, be cautious when navigating sidewalks, stairs, or bumpy terrain. 

Inner ear problems can lead to balance issues. In addition to vision screening, schedule regular hearing screenings. Let your doctor know if you're experiencing any vertigo or dizziness. These conditions are treatable and could help reduce your risk of falling.

Fall Prevention Strategies for Seniors

Falling injuries are common for seniors and may lead to serious injury, hospitalization, or death. The good news is that there are many fall prevention strategies seniors can use to stay safe. 

Taking the time to see your doctor and assess your home for potential hazards are key to avoiding unnecessary falls and injuries. If you're considering a senior living community as the next step, Summer Place offers an independent and maintenance-free lifestyle with support services as you need them.

It's a vibrant community of seniors who are enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, fun social events, and chef-prepared dining. Contact us today to see what Summer Place has to offer you or your loved one.

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