Too many seniors are injured as a result of falls. Learn what caregivers and seniors can do to reduce fall risk.
Focus on Fall Prevention 
The CDC has found that the leading cause of death and injury among older Americans is falling down. For their own safety, caregivers and their seniors must take steps to reduce fall risks. The dangers of falls for seniors are varied. Depending on the severity of a fall and the senior’s health injuries range from minor bruising to death. While not all falls can be prevented, with a proactive approach, significant risk reduction can be achieved.
Signs a Senior is at High Risk of Falling
The National Institute on Aging reports that losing a steady, healthy balance and gait is common among seniors. Other factors, like certain medications and diseases, can increase difficulty with balance. To determine if a senior is at high risk of falling, watch for the following signs:
- A change in gait
- Trouble getting in and out of chairs or bed
- Reaching for support when bending, moving, or climbing
- Needing breaks while moving about routinely, like while going up stairs
- Straining to see clearly
- Watching one’s feet while moving
- Shuffling instead of lifting the feet when walking
- Pain in the joints, back, or lower body
- Diseases like Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, or Arthritis
If you notice signs like these, take action. Help seniors with preventative measures around the home. Also, encourage them to practice walking safely outside the home as well.
Fall Risks and Prevention Strategies at Home
Floors and Stairs
Fall Risk Factors:
- Loose rugs
- Steep steps or inclines
- Slippery surfaces
- Clutter
- Pets that get underfoot
Prevention: Add traction surfaces and rails along the walls. Clean up obstacles and secure pets when seniors need to move. Install a chair lift on the stairs if needed.
Bathroom
Fall Risk Factors:
- Slippery surfaces
- Hard-to-access showers or tubs
- Lack of support
- Poor ventilation
Prevention: Keep the bathroom ventilated and dry. Add non-slip mats and grab bars. Install more accessible fixtures or seating and grab bars within the shower and tub.
Outside the Home
Fall Risk Factors:
- Unfamiliar areas
- Crowds and cluttered places
- Uneven terrain
Prevention: Accompany seniors closely, offering support as needed. Avoid busy hours and crowded locales. Stick to the sidewalk and locations that are familiar.
Kitchen
Fall Risk Factors:
- High or low shelves
- Slippery floors
- Poor lighting
- Too much furniture
Prevention: Move everyday kitchen items to waist level. Add traction pads to floors and increase lighting. Remove or rearrange furniture for easier maneuvering.
Bedroom and Living Area
Fall Risk Factors:
- Dim Lighting
- Clutter or excess furniture
- Lack of phones or night lighting
Prevention: Add lighting, include night lighting, and clear the path. Easy navigation should be the goal – no matter the hour. Secure cords, wires, and other tripping hazards behind furniture. Make phones easily accessible in case help is needed.
Home Care Tip
Participating in a balance and exercise program decreases fall risk. Contact a doctor, local YMCA, or Area Agency on Aging to find programs nearby for seniors with balance problems.
