The fear of falling can cause some adults to reduce activity, which brings even more risks for health and safety.
Perhaps you’ve been beside a loved one at the hospital and noticed the nurse attaching a brightly colored “FALL RISK” band to his/her wrist, alerting the medical team to this increased risk. This allows extra safety measures to be taken to keep patients safe during medical procedures. However, many do not know that a fall risk exists even in routine, everyday life among individuals diagnosed with these conditions:
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Cerebrovascular insufficiency
- Vertigo
- Stroke
- Postural hypotension
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disease
- And those taking any type of medications that can cause dizziness
According to the CDC, as many as 20 – 30% of those who experience a fall sustain moderate to severe injuries, such as broken bones or head trauma. Many of those who fall, even when they don’t obtain an injury, subsequently develop a fear of falling, which may cause them to limit their activity level, reducing their mobility and physical fitness, and actually increasing their risk of falling. The CDC’s recommendations to reduce falls include:
- Exercise on a regular basis
- Have a doctor or pharmacist review medications for dizziness/drowsiness side effects
- Schedule an eye exam at least annually
- Minimize fall risks in the home
At Advanced Home Health Care, we’re helping to minimize fall risks on a daily basis, keeping older adults safe. Our highly qualified caregivers are specially trained in techniques to ensure safe bathing, transferring, and ambulating.
For further suggestions on how to prevent falls in the home, or to discover more about our in-home care in Burlington and the surrounding communities we serve in the counties of Des Moines, Lee, Henry, Louisa and Van Buren, contact Advanced Home Health Care. Our home care services always begin with a complimentary consultation in the comfort of the senior’s home, followed by the development of a personalized care plan which can include services such as:
- Assistance with personal care needs, such as showering and dressing
- Meal planning and preparation in accordance with any dietary restrictions
- Light household chores and laundry
- Running errands
- Accompanied transportation to appointments or any other outings
- Companionship
- And more, customized to individual needs
Reach out to us at 1-800-791-7795 to find out more about how we can help improve the safety and quality of life for your loved one with our in home care in Burlington and the surrounding areas. Click here to view our full service area.
