Helping with Falls
Preventing Falls
Family members often call us when their parents or loved ones are experiencing frequent falls. They have usually tried several solutions but don’t seem to be able to get to the level of safety they want. My ongoing recommendation is always to look at your priorities, including safety, dignity, and happiness.
Last year, we started working with Sandy. She had several falls within a few months, and her brother called us about his concerns. When working with our clients, we always ask about medical issues first. We took Sandy to her primary care physician to rule out any underlying medical problem causing dizziness or a lack of balance. We asked her doctor to look into medication side effects or to see if she needed to be tested for some infection that had not been detected. The doctor decided that she was getting dizzy because of shallow breathing and ordered Oxygen. While at the doctor’s office, we asked if physical therapy might be a good addition to ongoing strengthening to help prevent future falls, and he agreed that it was needed. Once Sandy got back home, she was set up with her Oxygen. When her new physical therapist arrived, they encouraged her to change from a cane to a walker. We ordered her a fall alert pendant; since these changes have been made, she has not had another fall.
Since we start with a comprehensive assessment at home for most of our clients, we often find simple fixes to reduce the risk of falls: removing area rugs, moving end tables and lamp cords out of the way, and identifying areas to add grab bars for steadiness. So often, something as simple as a night light was not being used, so we immediately added it. My favorite “fix” is a nonslip mat next to the bed. Our team member, LeAnne, has it listed as one of our favorite things. She has used this with clients to give them better traction when they are getting out of bed.
https://www.agingcaremanagement.com/favorite-things.
We always recommend fall detection technology with two-way communication. I have yet to meet one older adult in 30 years who has had their phone when they fell. A phone is not a fall prevention solution.
If you are helping someone who has had two or more falls in the last year and one with an injury, we can help you take the next steps to make them safer.
