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FALL PREVENTION TIPS FROM HSC HOME CARE

Falls occur frequently and are a major cause of disability and death in our elderly population.

Injuries that may occur can be as simple as a bruise or as life-threatening as a head injury or a fracture, with the most common fracture being a hip.

Everyone is at risk and the risk increases as we age. Statistics state that more than 25% of people 65 to 74 will fall each year, and 33% of people 75 to 84 will sustain a fall. More than 75% of all falls occur in the home.

What can you do to prevent falls? You can make sure that you follow these suggestions:

Make sure you have good lighting in your home, especially at night. Use night lights in the bedroom, bathroom, and hallways.

All rugs should be firmly fastened or secured to the floor or have a nonskid backing. All edges should be secured.

Keep all electrical cords out of pathways. Keep all clutter out of pathways.

Put handrails in bathrooms for bath, shower, and toilet use. Also place non-skid adhesive strips in bathtubs or showers. Install a raised toilet seat.

Always use the handrails on stairways, and if you do not have handrails, have them installed.

Be sure to wear firm non-skid shoes with non-friction soles. Avoid loose fitting slippers and high heels. Take good care of your feet.

If your ability to walk or your balance is questionable, please be sure to use a good cane or walker for stability.

When you get up out of bed or out of your chair, take your time – let your body adjust to the position change. This will prevent dizziness and hopefully prevent a fall.

Make sure you have good sidewalks and railings and good lighting outside. Stay indoors when there is bad weather such as rain or ice or snow.

Have a buddy system in place. Have your family call or come by to check on you at least once daily, or if your family lives elsewhere, have a good friend or neighbor check on you daily.

Another idea would be to have a lifeline or emergency line on your person. They are usually similar to a watch you can wear on your arm or on a chain to wear around your neck. If you were to fall, you can activate these and call for help.

Take these tips and use them to your advantage and stay safe.
Take a little bit of extra time and prevent falls.

Sherry Wylie, RN, BSN, is the Clinical Coordinator for HSC Home Care at HSC Medical Center. For more information about home health, contact Wylie at 501-337-4663.