Ageing and falls: Tips to prevent falls at home

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Thu, 20/10/2011 - 11:41pm

Modifying doorways with anti-trip ramps is an effective measure to prevent falls.

A number of factors contribute to falls in older people. Falls commonly occur at home. Many falls could be prevented by taking simple measures.

How to prevent falls at home

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older people. There are many things you can do to prevent falls at home. Falls should always be investigated by a GP.

Modify the home environment: Remove slippery mats and free walkways of clutter. Install grab rails in the bathroom and rubber mats on shower landings.

Arrange the Bedroom: When sitting on the bed a person’s feet should touch the floor at a 90-degree angle. Position side table, lamp and phone by the bed. Keep a walking frame within reach at the same place for nighttime waking.

Exercise regularly: Encourage a person to stay mobile and independent by exercising regularly. Ask a doctor or physiotherapist to suggest a suitable program. Exercise can improve a person’s balance, strength and muscle tone.

Choose correct footwear: Ensure a person is wearing a secure fitting shoe with non-slip sole. Discourage walking around in socks, stockings and slippers. Purchase non-slip socks and throw away old slippers.

Encourage the use of a walking aid: Make an appointment with a physiotherapist if the person you care for is unsteady on their feet. Walking aids can increase stability and balance.

Monitor medications: Be aware of any medications that make a person feel dizzy or unsteady on the feet. Encourage a person to get up slowly when sitting or lying down. Talk to a doctor about changing medications.

Ensure good vision: Make sure an older person is wearing reading glasses for reading and distance glasses for walking. Install 75-watt incandescent or 15w compact fluorescent light globes in the house, sensor nightlights and two way light switches at each end of corridors.

Consider hip protectors: Ask a physiotherapist about the suitability of hip protectors to protect against injury and hip fractures.

Get some vitamin D: Encourage some sun exposure to the face and hands 4 -6 times a week for up to 20 minutes. Avoid the sun between peak times 10:00 a.m and 3:00 p.m. Check with your doctor.

Strengthen the bones: Encourage an older person to eat foods high in calcium every day like sardines, yoghurt, cheese and milk.

Medical alarm systems: Make sure a person can get help in case of an emergency. Have a falls plan in place. Discuss with family and neighbours the possibility of falling at home and what to do.