Exploring Home Health Care Benefits

Falls are the most common cause of injuries and injury-related deaths in the country, with older adults being particularly vulnerable. One out of four adults aged 65 and over experience some type of fall every year in the US. If you're among those with a senior loved one who has chosen to age in place in their own home, you undoubtedly find that statistic worrisome. You probably already know about personal alert devices that summon emergency services in case of a slip-and-fall accident or other household mishaps. Continue reading to learn ways that your senior loved one can lower their risk of falling. 

Regular Exercise

Exercise can improve balance, strength, and flexibility, which can help prevent falls. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, water aerobics, and chair yoga, are easy on the joints, making them good choices for seniors. 

Balance Workouts

Balance workouts should be added on top of a general physical fitness plan for an extra layer of protection against falls. There are many fitness programs designed to help seniors with their balance. 

Assistive Devices

Walkers, canes, and other assistive devices can help seniors maintain balance and stability when moving around. Grab bars, handrails, and non-slip mats can help prevent falls in the areas of the home where slip-and-fall accidents are most common, such as bathrooms and kitchens. 

Appropriate Footwear

Choose shoes that fit well and have non-slip soles to reduce the risk of slipping and falling. Shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole can help reduce the risk of falls by improving balance and reducing foot fatigue.

Medication Management

Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase the risk of falls. It's important to keep track of medications and dosages and talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns.

Home Modifications

Home modifications, such as improving lighting, using night lights, and installing handrails on stairs, can reduce the risk of falls. Remove tripping hazards from floors, such as throw rugs and clutter, and repair any uneven flooring. Strong, ambient lighting from overhead fixtures is best because it eliminates shadows.

Home Health Care

Home health care is designed to provide seniors who choose to age in place rather than relocate to assisted living facilities with the help they need to retain a good quality of life.  A home care service can assist with medication management, monitor the home for slip-and-fall hazards, make sure that clutter is picked up from floors, help with transportation to exercise classes, go on walks with seniors, assist with chair yoga, help ensure that footwear is adequate and that it fits properly, and other supportive tasks that will lessen the risk of your senior loved one having a slip-and-fall mishap in the home. 

Contact a local in-home health care service to learn more.