Managing Fall Risk In-Home Assessments

Author

ComForCare Home Care of NW Pittsburgh

Posted on

Sep 20, 2021

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

You noticed a bruise on Grandmas arm. It was just a little fall, she says. Maybe, but what about next time?

According to the National Council on Aging, every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.
Even if someone isnt hurt when they fall, they may become afraid of falling, which can have a big impact on their life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found the fear of falling causes people to limit their activities and cut back on social engagement. When someone is less active, they become weaker, which increases their chances of falling.
Its a common belief that falls are just a part of aging. Thats not necessarily true; many falls are preventable. A home safety check will evaluate all aspects of someones living conditions, where a trained representative will look at things such as:

Are rugs and runners slip-resistant?
Is there adequate lighting?
Is a persons bed raised too high?

Once the home has been evaluated, get suggestions on how to reduce fall risks. Recommendations may include installing a raised toilet seat, shower bench or grab bars in the bathroom, increasing the lighting, or removing rugs.
During a fall risk assessment, a senior should be evaluated on factors, such as:

History of falls
Mobility issues
Visual impairment
Certain medications
Chronic conditions

If someone is found to be at a high risk of falling, the person should take proactive measures to prevent a fall. This can include consulting a physical therapist for strengthening exercises, participating in a fall prevention program, talking with their physician about medication side effects; scheduling an eye exam; or contacting a medical equipment supplier for a walker, cane or another assistive device.
Falls can be serious, especially for older adults. However, through lifestyle adjustments, home modifications and proactive approaches to care, fall risks can be reduced.
Editors Note: This article was submitted by Michael Barron. Michael is the owner of ComForCare Home Care of NW Pittsburgh and may be reached at (724) 759-7674 or by email at mbarron@comforcare.com.

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