Studies indicate that one in four individuals aged 65 or more falls each year. Unfortunately, an elderly adult dies every 19 minutes from a fall. Falls constitute a fatal injury and many occur in the home. Senior falls result from various factors including muscle weakness, effects of medications, impaired vision, poor coordination, and problems with balance. Fall prevention is vital as it helps to prevent injuries and death. Find out how senior living in Doraville, GA helps to prevent falls.
Healthy Diet and Exercise
Older adults are vulnerable to falling, partly because the aging process has caused their bodies to become weak. Eating a healthy diet and staying physically active can help to strengthen the body. Essential nutrients and minerals can help to strengthen the bones. Residents in retirement communities have access to healthy dining. Staying fit is crucial for preventing falls as it helps to ensure strong bones and muscles. It is also vital to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Handrails and Grab Bars
Installing handrails and grab bars allows older adults to walk safely along corridors, stairways, and other areas. The bars are also installed in washrooms, reducing the risk of falling in the areas. Movement challenges and fear can cause elderly individuals to limit their movements and activities. It can affect their overall health as it can result in weak muscles and stiff joints. Having handrails and bars in strategic locations helps to reduce this fear.
Installing Adequate Lighting
Having trouble seeing can be disorienting and can make it hard to navigate and get around. Inadequate lighting increases the risk of falls in individuals who require personal care. The best retirement communities ensure that they install adequate lighting, especially in stairways and narrow hallways. Nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms help to enhance visibility for individuals who may be experiencing impaired vision.
Environmental Factors
Some factors increase the risk of falling, not just for elderly individuals, but for anyone. The factors include loose rugs, slippery floors, dim lighting, and overcrowded living spaces. When you choose senior living in Doraville, GA, you benefit from a safe environment where the risk of falling is reduced. The secure apartments and neighborhoods are designed with elderly adults in mind. Encouraging the wearing of proper footwear is also crucial. Shoes with good grip can help to prevent slips and falls.
Care with Medications
Many medications suppress the nervous system, reducing responsiveness and alertness. They can cause fatigue, headaches, dizziness and even hallucinations, increasing the risk of falling. Taking several medications increases the likelihood of falls due to drug interactions. Retirement communities have team members trained to assist residents who require medications. Regular vision checks by an eye professional are also essential. They help to ensure lens prescriptions are updated as necessary.
Falls can have life-changing consequences for elderly adults. They can be physically and emotionally devastating for the individual. An effective fall prevention strategy is essential for keeping residents healthy, active, and independent while remaining safe. Residents with chronic conditions that affect mobility, such as arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and dementia, can get specialized care. Protecting the safety and health of residents is an essential component of retirement community living.
