The mornings are frosty, nights are crisp and the leaves are turning colors and falling. Not only was yesterday the first official day of fall, it also marked the 8th annual Falls Prevention Awareness day.
Falls Prevention Awareness day was founded by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) as a way to increase awareness of the risks associated with falls and fall-related injuries amongst the elderly.
Since it’s inception, Falls Prevention Awareness Day has garnered national attention and the support 48 states and the District of Columbia.
Each year the NCOA chooses a central theme to focus on during the month of September, which has unofficially become Falls Prevention Awareness month. This year, the NCOA chose a central theme titled “Take a Stand to Prevent Falls.”
When considering the staggering statistics, it is very apparent how important falls prevention and awareness is. In fact, according to the NCOA every 15 seconds an elderly loved one is seen in the Emergency Room due to fall related injuries. With numbers like these implementing protocols and strategies to prevent falls and fall-related injuries can be lifesaving.
How to Reduce the Risk of Falls and Fall-Related Injuries
Since a majority of falls take place around the house, the following tips will help reduce the risk of your elderly loved one falling and experiencing a fall-related injury.
- Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways
- Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip resistant backing to prevent a slipping hazard
- Repair loose wooden floorboards and carpeting
- Immediately clean spilled liquid, grease or food
- Use nonslip mats in the bathtub or shower
- Place night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways
- Store flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages
- Fix handrails to both sides of the stairways
- Use nonslip treads for bare-wood steps
- Use a raised toilet seat or one with armrests
- Install grab bars in the shower or tub
Wiser Home Care Services Can Help
While these are all great tips, it can still be difficult to prevent falls and fall-related injuries. If you care for an elderly loved one and would like help developing a care plan please contact us. Wiser Home Care Services can help your family establish a care plan. We will personally accommodate your loved one’s needs and help prevent falls.