How great is the effect of falling among older adults? What are the figures? And how does home health services in Ohio help in the prevention of falls?

Elderly Falls: The Stats and Risks

Falling is considered the biggest cause of both traumatic and non-traumatic injuries and death among older Americans. In fact,

• 33% of the senior population is involved in falling accidents yearly.
• The above percentage accounts for more than 2 million annual ER visits are due to falls.

Serious conditions caused by falling include traumatic brain injuries and bone fractures, which negatively impact our aging loved one’s quality of life. Furthermore, there are also psychological effects to take into account. Seniors might limit their activities and go on self-imposed social isolation to keep themselves from harm’s way. What they don’t know is that leading a sedentary and isolated life puts them at risk of suffering from physical and mental deterioration.

What Are the Common Causes of Falls in Seniors?

• Body changes brought about by aging
  This includes dimming vision, loss of one’s sense of balance and coordination, and difficulty in moving around due to stiff muscles and joints.
• Medical conditions
  An infection or even dehydration weakens your elderly family member, making them more susceptible to falls. Cognitive illnesses, like Alzheimer’s, impair their judgment and cause confusion,
  which increases their falling risks. Nerve damage brought about by diabetes also makes it difficult for them to assess what’s safe and what’s not as they move around.
• Medication
  Dizziness or lightheadedness is a common side-effect in many prescription drugs, and these increase your aging loved one’s risk of hurting themselves through falling.
• Clutter
  Unsecured rugs, carpets, other floor decors, and elevations that the elderly members of the house aren’t aware of are falling hazards.
• Unsuitable Lighting
  Inefficient lighting in hallways and corridors are red flags for fall occurrences. So is too much light in an area as it could cause lightheadedness.

Steps You Can Take to Lessen Your Loved One’s Falling Risks

• Declutter your home.
  Secure rugs and carpets, and take away decors that could cause your elderly loved ones to fall. House them in your home’s first level, so they won’t have to use the stairs. Also, make sure corridors and hallways, especially those leading from their bedrooms to the bathroom, have ample lighting at night.
• Consider physical therapy.
  Enlisting the help of a physical therapist from a reputable healthcare provider in Ohio can help improve their coordination and balance and prevent physical deterioration among seniors with mobility limitations.
• Get professional help.
  Having a home health aide around doesn’t just secure their safety. You’re also assured that they get the help they need with their daily tasks. They can also assist your senior loved ones with their physical activities, like walking.

Avail of our services at Supreme Touch Home Health Services Corp. We’re a primary provider of home health care in Columbus Ohio.