Senior Care Safety Tips

The CDC estimates that one in four senior adults fall each year, with a fall happening every second on average. This makes falls the leading cause of injury for seniors.  

In real numbers, about 36 million older adults fall each year—resulting in more than 32,000 deaths. On top of that, one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. 

Safety Tips for the Home

At Best Care, we understand that these numbers can be very alarming for seniors living on their own. However, this doesn’t mean you have to live in fear.

While every senior needs to be aware of the dangers of falling, preventing slips, trips, and falls is also possible with a few simple lifestyle changes. Being cautious and making some minor adjustments in daily routines can help to prevent injuries from ever happening in the first place.

Here are some handy safety tips to help seniors stay on their feet:

• Staying active to help improve strength and balance
• Wearing sturdy, non-skid shoes instead of slippers or socks
• Installing grab bars in showers and baths, and railings along stairs
• Using non-slip mats for showers and stairs to increase traction

While these changes are a good place to start, it is important to discuss the potential for falling with your doctor to come up with a custom prevention plan. For example, seniors with mobility issues can need some specific advice to help them and their unique symptoms.

Even when all these preventive measures are put into action, falls and accidents may still occur. Injuries caused by falls can take years to fully heal. During this recovery period, in-home personal care can be a vital service.

Providing Safe Home Care Options

Our personal care assistants help many seniors continue to live in their home and maintain their independence, even with certain injuries or ailments. Regular visits to provide safe home care can help a senior stay safe and healthy while allowing them to stay where they are most comfortable. 

Below are some safety and health tips for seniors living at home:

• Eating, Health, & Exercise: The best way to stay safe at home is to stay healthy! A healthy diet and regular exercise will help keep the mind sharp and resist sickness. Personal care assistants can help organize a home care plan that focuses on preparing healthy meals and getting daily exercise.
• Avoiding Falls: Each year, falling sends three million older Americans to the emergency room. Install non-slip mats and handrails in all areas of the home that might be slippery (bathroom, entryways, etc.). Also, ensure that all rooms are properly lit and important items in cupboards are on the lower shelves and easy to reach.
• Socializing: Seniors living alone are at an elevated risk for depression. Scheduling times to meet with friends or taking part in social activities are great ways for seniors to stay engaged with those in their community.

If you or a loved one has experienced a loss of mobility or difficulty in daily activities due to injuries caused by a fall, consider PCA services. Contact Best Care today to learn more about your options for these services and how to find a qualified family PCA to help you or your loved one live independently and without fear!