8 TIPS TO PREVENT FALLS AT HOME

As per Statistics Canada, a significant proportion of older Canadians, ranging from 20% to 30%, encounter one or more falls annually, with a considerable number necessitating hospitalization. Alarmingly, over one third of these older adults cannot return to their homes after a fall and must be admitted to long-term care facilities.

Hence, it’s essential to prioritize fall prevention for your parents or grandparents who continue to reside in their own homes.

Reducing the risk of falls can be achieved by implementing several straightforward measures:

STAYING ACTIVE

Keeping active helps keep muscles strong and reflexes sharp. Elderly people can attend exercise classes that are designed specifically for them.

USE MEDICATION WISELY

Certain prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications have the potential to elevate the risk of falls due to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or a decrease in blood pressure.

When your parents are prescribed a medication, it’s essential to engage in a thorough discussion with their pharmacist to ensure a comprehensive understanding of its effects. Likewise, always consult the pharmacist before your parents consider taking an OTC medication or natural product. Avoid making assumptions that a product suitable for you will also be appropriate for them.

WATCH FOR DEHYDRATION

Dehydration can lead to confusion and dizziness, increasing the likelihood of a fall, which is a particular concern for older adults. As individuals age, they may lose the natural inclination to stay hydrated.

To mitigate the risk of dehydration, it’s important to encourage seniors to maintain adequate fluid intake, especially during periods of high heat, such as placing a readily accessible pitcher of water within their reach.

Additionally, if an older adult experiences episodes of vomiting or diarrhea, it’s crucial to promptly seek advice from their pharmacist or physician.

DON’T BE RUSHED

Older adults, especially, should be careful not to change positions too suddenly, for example, getting out of bed in the morning or getting up from a chair, as it can cause dizziness. Consider installing grab bars in the bathroom or beside the bed, to make it easier to change positions.

Other situations that can lead to falls include rushing to answer the phone or to get the door, especially if it involves negotiating stairs. It is best to let the phone or doorbell ring rather than risk a fall trying to answer it.

HAVE EYESIGHT CHECKED REGULARLY

Clear vision is essential for avoiding obstacles effectively. Routine eye examinations provide an opportunity to assess and update prescription glasses, if necessary. If your parents are dealing with eye conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration, it’s crucial to ensure they attend their scheduled follow-up appointments.

WEAR WELL-FITTING SHOES

Poor-fitting shoes can increase the risk of a fall. When buying new shoes, opt for a specialty footwear store rather than a department store, especially if your parents have special needs or have trouble putting their shoes on their own. These shops often have a better selection of shoes to meet a range of needs, and their sales staff is better trained to help you.

USE WALKING AIDS

If your parents are hesitant to utilize a cane or walker, even when it’s necessary, it’s important to engage in a conversation with them to understand their concerns. If there are issues with the device, explore solutions to address those problems. If their reluctance stems from self-consciousness about using a walking aid, consider explaining that the potential consequences of a fall far outweigh any concerns about how others perceive them.

ADAPT THE HOME

To minimize the risk of falls within the home, it’s crucial that your parents can move from one room to another with a clear, unobstructed path.

Consider revising the room layouts and eliminating unnecessary furniture and decorations if needed. Remove any rugs or carpets that could pose tripping hazards, or ensure they have non-slip backing.

Proper lighting is of paramount importance, especially for those with vision impairments. Install night lights in hallways and bathrooms to ensure clear visibility during nighttime movements.

If there are stairs in the residence, make certain they are well-lit, that the handrail is securely fastened, and there are no obstructions on the stairs or landings.

Don’t overlook the outdoor walkways and entrances; they should be uncluttered and well-lit. During winter months, consider enlisting assistance for snow removal to maintain safe paths.

Falls often occur when seniors attempt to reach items just out of their grasp. Verify that everyday objects like pots and pans in the kitchen and towels in the bathroom are easily accessible.

Your pharmacy team can assist you in selecting the appropriate equipment to prevent falls, and they can place orders for specific equipment if it’s not readily available in the pharmacy. In many cases, equipment can be rented for temporary use or for a trial period before making a purchase.

Your pharmacist is also capable of reviewing your medication therapy to identify any medications that may increase the risk of falls and suggest alternatives. Don’t hesitate to discuss your fall prevention needs with your pharmacist!