As parents age and have diminished abilities to see and navigate around the home or even outdoors it is increasingly important that their children and loved ones become increasingly aware of these challenges. Most are probably more aware of the medical and health issues which are discussed by doctors or medical caregivers, but all too often the risks that accompany failing sight are typically not addressed as much.
Yet it is the diminished capacity to see as clearly or move around to avoid not so apparent obstacles on the floor or outdoors which can result in serious falls or even worse. In fact according to many emergency room officials, and national studies falls by senior citizens can account for a majority of the injuries suffered by seniors 65 years or older.
Understand the Risks
It is crucial for you to understand just what your loved one is experiencing. Then you can assist in safeguarding them from unnecessary from falls.
One way to assist your elderly parents is to develop a checklist of possible problems they might be encountering. For instance, do they go outdoors for a walk but cannot see the steps? Are they able to walk in the living room or hall with area rugs on the floor?
These are just a couple simple items that normally would not be issues for younger people seniors can accidently slip on a missed step or stumble over an area rug.
Safeguard Rooms
Look at how each room has is arranged so that your parents can navigate easily. For example, in the living room, consider arranging the furniture so that there are no tables jutting outward and remove knick knacks and clutter on the floor.
Secure all loose wires that are connected to electronic items like computers, stereos, TVs, lamps and telephones. Purchase a 4 or 6 outlet surge protector which will eliminate the tangle of wires that can cause an elderly person to trip and fall.
Another issue that many older persons have is getting in and out of kitchen or dining room chairs. So make certain that the chairs can be easy move in and out from the table and that they will support the weight of your parent as they sit or stand up.
Prevent Bathroom Falls
This is certainly a room that can be fraught with peril and in far too many instances slip and falls can result in too many visits to the emergency room do to falls. One tip that can help your parents is to buy raised toilet seats to that they can use the toilet easier instead of having to grapple for something to steady them as they sit or lift up from the toilet.
The bathtub and the shower should have no-slip adhesive strips installed and even grab bars by any area where they have to raise themselves, like the bathtub and toilet.
Proper Footwear
Footwear should match their advanced age. Get rid of high heels and toss the floppy slippers. Buy them sensible shoes to prevent accidental spills. Instead: look for shoes that have non-skid soles as well as footwear with fabric fasteners. The easier to put on and wear the less chance there will be for stumbles and falls.
Proper Lighting
As your parents have aged their need for properly lit rooms has increased. All of the hallways should have night lights to help guide them from room to room. The bedroom should have a nightstand lamp as well as a night light.
Follow these key tips to prevent falls to keep your parents safe and secure in their home.
