According to the CDC, about 36 million older adults experience falls. Falls are a leading cause of hospitalization among seniors, especially in assisted living communities. These falls can result in serious injuries, such as head trauma, hip fractures, and even death.
The good news is that with proper measures, you can prevent falls. Assisted living communities have developed comprehensive plans to help reduce fall risks among seniors. Below are effective fall prevention strategies in assisted living to keep your senior loved ones safe and active.
Falling is a serious concern in senior living safety. But why do these falls happen? Let's explore some of the common factors that contribute to fall risk among seniors.
Knowing these concerns can help you prioritize effective elderly care strategies to help prevent falls. As a result, senior living communities can become a safe space for seniors.
As you take your loved one to senior living communities, the risk of falls becomes a growing worry. Fortunately, with the right elderly care strategies, you can reduce the chances of falling. Here are some assisted living safety tips to help create a safer environment for your loved one.
A comprehensive fall risk assessment is the cornerstone of fall prevention. Each resident in a senior living community has different levels of mobility and conditions that can affect the risk of falls. This is why new residents undergo a thorough assessment upon arrival to help personalize care and reduce fall risks.
Assessments may include factors like:
When communities determine specific risks for each individual, they can tailor their fall prevention strategies. It goes a long way to protect your senior loved one.
The World Health Organization reports that 30% to 50% of falls happen due to environmental hazards. Assisted living communities prioritize senior living safety, ensuring that spaces are hazard-free. Some practical changes they implement include:
Senior living communities conduct regular environmental audits to identify hazards and improve safety. These small adjustments make a big difference in creating a safe senior living environment.
Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls among the elderly. Research shows that exercise can lower the risk of falls by 24%.
Assisted living communities often offer programs that target strength, gait, and balance. As a result, it helps seniors improve their physical stability.
Some communities even offer specialized classes like Tai Chi -- which helps improve balance through slow, controlled movements.
Residents often perform exercise routines tailored to individual abilities. Many communities offer group classes or one-on-one sessions with supervision. Encouraging seniors to stay active is an integral part of a fall risk reduction plan.
While assisted living communities don't prescribe medications, they can play an important part in managing your loved one's medication schedules. Certain drugs like sedatives can increase the risk of falls. Careful monitoring of medications can help mitigate these risks.
The staff at senior living communities can also ensure your loved one stays on top of routine vision and hearing checks. As a result, these can promote assisted living safety.
Nearly 50% of the world's population is deficient in vitamin D, especially seniors with limited sun exposure. Vitamin D is essential in maintaining muscle strength and preventing falls. Studies show that vitamin D supplementation can help improve balance and strength.
To enhance senior living safety, senior living communities can encourage seniors through activities that encourage sun exposure such as walks. They can also supplement vitamin D through the dietary plan.
Encouraging residents to wear the right footwear can dramatically reduce fall risks. Consider these assisted-living safety tips for shoes:
Additionally, shoes with low, sturdy heels improve balance. Seniors should avoid loose slippers or going barefoot as it can increase the risk of falls.
Educating seniors and staff is vital for effective fall risk reduction. To foster a safe environment, senior living communities offer ongoing training programs. These wellness programs focus on identifying potential fall hazards within the community and promoting safe mobility practices.
The program can also outline emergency procedures in case of a fall. With proper knowledge and skills, residents can take an active role in their well-being. They can also collaborate with staff to enhance their safety.
Fall prevention is a priority for seniors. With the right senior living strategies, you can trust that your loved ones are in good hands.
At Addington Place, we offer secure assisted living in Des Moines, Iowa. Our team ensures your loved one enjoys a safe living experience. Get in touch with us to schedule a no-obligation tour.