Prevent Falls: Tips for caregivers who afraid for elderly and senior family members, falling, tripping, accidents

20 Tips for Fall Prevention for Comfort Keepers® Clients and their Families

According to the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
In the United States, one of every three people 65 years and older falls each year.
60 percent of seniors fall in their own homes
Older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than they are for injuries from other causes.
Of those who fall, 20-30% suffer moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death.

The client’s family can help our clients by remembering to follow these 10 fall prevention tips:
Make sure they have an annual medical check-up.
Make sure they have an eye examination at least once a year.
Have a pharmacist or physician review their medications to reduce interactions or side effects that might impede alertness and balance.
Install rails in appropriate places. (Towel racks may not be strong enough)
Replace the toilet with a higher toilet and/or install handrails.
Store eyeglasses within easy reach of the bed.
Arrange furniture so that outlets are available without the use of extension cords.
Wear proper footwear. Shoes, boots and slippers should provide good support and have good soles. Avoid loose slippers or stocking feet.
Add a strip along the edge of each step in a contrasting color to make it easier to see or use reflective anti-skid treads.
Keep often used items in cabinets you can reach easily without using a step stool.

Comfort Keepers® can help our clients by remembering to follow these 10 fall prevention tips:
Involve them in regular physical exercise to increase their lower body strength and improve their balance.
Eliminate tripping hazards in the home such as throw rugs and clutter.
Improve lighting in all rooms, including night-lights along walkways.
After a shower or bath, wipe up water immediately to prevent slipping. Suggest non-slip mats in the bathtub and on the shower floor.
Suggest a shower seat. It will allow the client to shower without getting tired.
Make sure the hand rails of all stairs are sturdy and encourage the client to use them.
Suggest a portable commode near the bed to eliminate nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Use walking aids and other safety devices for extra safety.
Keep a telephone near your bed.
Store heavy items in lower cupboards. http://www.comfortkeepers.com

There are many tools and materials available for teaching your clients and their families how to prevent a fall. Checkout the following websites for ideas:


- http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/fallsmaterial.htm
- http://www.nsc.org/issues/fallstop.htm
- http://www.gethealthyclarkcounty.org/injury_prev/senior.html