Preventing Falls From Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

It has been estimated that over one third of all adults over the age of 65 fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of injury death in this age group and the also a common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. How can you keep the loved one in your care safe?

Your loved one:
1. Encourage exercize, see if there's a local program nearby, Tai Chi and similar programs that increase strength and improve balance are especially good.
2. Have their doctor or pharmacist go over their medications to see if there's any drugs or drug interactions that can cause dizzyness or balance problems.
3. Make sure they get an eye exam yearly.
4. Wear proper footwear.

The home:
1. Increase the lighting for better visibility.
2. Remove throw rugs, use carpet tape to secure edges on other carpets.
3. Reduce clutter
4. Make sure electrical and telephone cords are safely out of walking paths
5. Install grab bars in the bathroom
6. Buy a shower chair and raised toilet seat if needed.
7. Use a non-skid mat or appliques in the bathtub.
8. Arrange furniture so it can easily be walked around.
9. Use nightlights.
10. Have sturdy handrails on both sides of all stairs.
11. Use brightly colored tape to mark the edge of stairs both inside and out.
12. Adjust the height of the bed to make it easy to get in and out of.