The CDC reports that over 14 million adults over 65 fall every year, which means 25% of the senior population is going through this. Not only can falls be painful, but they can also disrupt daily life and make future falls more likely.
Avoiding falls in seniors is preventable though. It's just that many older adults don't know where to look for resources or what to do.
This is where a fall prevention program is extremely useful. A good one will approach things from a holistic view, addressing various ways to keep seniors safe, healthy, and as independent as possible.
Are you interested in learning more? Then read on to discover what a fall prevention program is and what it can do for older adults in Visalia, CA.
A fall prevention program is a structured plan of exercises, education, and lifestyle adjustments, and the goal is to help seniors avoid falls.
These programs often include:
It's essential for older adults to go through these programs, even if they've already fallen. After a fall, many become hesitant to move around, which can lead to:
Fall prevention programs are designed to give seniors their confidence back so that they can stay active and healthy.
Now that you know how these programs work, let's explore how they can help seniors. You may find the benefits relevant to your loved one.
Of course, with the right fall prevention strategies, the program should reduce fall risks for older adults. The program begins by identifying what's putting someone at risk, such as:
By tackling these issues directly, the chances of falling decrease significantly. For example, a medication review may identify a prescription that causes dizziness, and your beloved senior's doctor can adjust it accordingly (or prescribe an alternative). Or you can add grab bars in the bathroom so moving around is much safer.
Many older adults who participate in fall prevention programs take part in balance exercises for seniors. Not only is it important to keep up with fitness for healthy aging, but it's also great for fall prevention.
The exercises in these activities are specifically chosen to:
The program makes things fun too. Seniors can do activities like tai chi, gentle strength training, or walking practices.
The main goal is to focus on and improve three points: balance, strength, and flexibility. These can:
The fear of falling often keeps seniors from doing the things they love, especially if they've already had prior falls. But this is no way to live.
When you address mobility safety for older adults and teach them ways to prevent falls, this rebuilds trust in their own bodies. With improved balance, strength, and flexibility, seniors will feel safer:
This will enable them to pick things back up and resume normal daily life.
The ability to live life on your own terms is invaluable, and everyone wishes for that, especially older adults. These programs lower the risk of falls and make it possible to continue:
Seniors will be able to stay in their homes for longer since they're more independent. And their loved ones will gain peace of mind knowing that their family member is safer.
These are the things you can expect from a fall prevention program:
It's vital for everyone to stay consistent and have regular participation. You can encourage this by helping them with things like transportation, moral support, and home safety changes.
Seniors should always communicate with their doctors and share program updates. That way, all aspects of health are considered.
Most importantly, celebrate progress. Even small improvements in balance or mobility are steps toward greater independence.
To get started, help your loved one ask their doctor about local fall prevention classes or physical therapy programs. There are also community resources, such as:
You can also go over to their house and help them clean up. For example, you can remove clutter, improve lighting, and get them supportive footwear.
In addition, there are simple balance exercises your loved one can already learn and do at home. For instance, there's standing on one foot or walking heel-to-toe along a hallway.
If you're really concerned about your beloved senior's well-being, and it's too much work to modify their current home, then consider assisted living. This puts them in a safe and secure environment, as the community is designed for senior living.
There are also very helpful services available, such as regular housekeeping and maintenance, as well as assistance with daily tasks, like bathing and dressing. And if anything happens, help is on the way promptly.
Knowing your loved one is in a safe location can give you peace of mind. Plus, you can visit them whenever you want.
A fall prevention program can keep your elderly loved one safe since it addresses several factors that reduce fall risk. However, in some cases, it may not be enough.
If that's the situation for your senior, then a move into assisted living can be optimal. They'll be amongst other older adults, and they'll receive exceptional care that'll improve their quality of life.
To hear more about assisted living in Visalia, CA, contact us now. Marbella Visalia offers our residents personalized assistance with daily living activities (such as bathing, medication management, and continence care) to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.