Did you know that…
- Every 11 seconds, a senior is seen in an emergency department after having suffered a fall?
- More than one in four seniors aged 65+ falls each year in America?
- Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including more than 800,000 hospitalizations?
- The financial toll for older adult falls is expected to reach more than $101 billion by 2030, due to our ever-increasing aging population?
According to the National Council on Aging, “Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten senior safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs.”
We all know seniors who have fallen. Many of our Home Helpers clients reported having fallen prior to beginning in-home care services, and they have an inherent fear of falling again.
September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month and knowing the serious nature of fall injuries suffered by seniors, I want to share six safety steps to help prevent seniors from falling as presented by the Illinois Extension, an organization at the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences, and the National Council on Aging (NCOA).
- Find a good balance and exercise program to help improve balance, build strength, and increase flexibility. To make it more enjoyable and promote accountability, bring a friend along!
- Ask your primary care provider about a fall risk assessment and let them know about any falls you’ve experienced.
- Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist to determine if some side effects may increase your risk of falling. Always take medications as they are prescribed.
- Get annual vision and hearing exams and ensure eyeglasses are updated if necessary. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
- Talk to your family members and enlist support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors’ issue.
- Keep your home safe by removing tripping hazards, increasing lighting in darker rooms, corridors, and staircases, making sure stairs are safe, and installing grab bars in or near the tub, shower, and toilet.
“Falls, with or without injury, also carry a heavy quality of life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, limit their activities and social engagements. This can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness,” says the NCOA.
Home Helpers® is in the business of providing aid, comfort, and protection for seniors to live independently at home for as long as possible. We make independent living safer and easier for seniors every day, and our team of caregivers is highly skilled and trained to make life easier and safer for our senior clients.
I am happy to offer a FREE Assessment to discuss specific needs and create a custom care plan to improve a senior’s overall quality of life and preserve their independence for as long as possible. I also perform home safety checks during our consultation to help keep seniors safe from falling in and around their homes.
Home Helpers® Bourbonnais/Kankakee/Frankfort proudly serves male and female seniors in Beecher, Bourbonnais, Bradley, Dwight, Frankfort, Kankakee, Manteno, Mokena, New Lenox, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Tinley Park, Watseka, Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Contact me today to learn more about the many services offered through Home Helpers® - We are Making Life Easier℠ for you and yours! (815) 427-4238
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