Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors at Home and in the Community
Every year, one in four seniors has a serious fall. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in older adults in America.
Because older adults fear falling, it can cause them to limit their activities and social engagements. This can further decrease quality of life. Fortunately, making a few lifestyle adjustments can significantly help with fall prevention in older adults.
At SRG Senior Living, we recognize that fall prevention is a crucial aspect of maintaining independence, preventing injuries, and enhancing overall quality of life. We’re dedicated to helping our residents prevent falls through training and balance exercises.
We’ll discuss some strategies for fall prevention, including home modifications for safety, balance and strength exercises, and assistance devices.
Home Modifications for Safety
One of the first steps, and the most effective, to eliminating fall risks can be achieved through home modifications. With a few adjustments, you can make your home safer and more secure, simplify daily activities, and reduce the risk of accidents.
Follow the tips below to help prevent falls at home:
- Remove Hazards: Eliminate tripping hazards such as loose rugs, clutter, and electrical cords.
- Improve Lighting: Install bright lights in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms. Replace bulbs that have burned out and use nightlights when possible.
- Bathroom Support: Add grab bars near toilets and in showers. Use non-slip mats in and out of the shower.
- Stairway Precautions: Ensure handrails are on both sides of stairwells. Make sure there is good lighting and that the steps are easily visible. Remove rugs that are not securely in place on steps.
- Flooring Considerations: Secure carpets and rugs. Avoid walking on slippery surfaces and ask for assistance with cleaning up slick surfaces if needed.
Balance and Strength Exercises
Regular physical activity has many benefits for seniors, including fall prevention. Balance and strength exercises are particularly important for preventing falls in older adults.
Our communities at SRG offer classes that incorporate these exercises, providing residents with an opportunity to engage with others while working on balance and coordination. Some recommended exercises for balance include Tai Chi, yoga, water aerobics, and simple standing balance exercises.
Strength training can be another helpful way to prevent falls. At SRG, our communities offer full-service gyms with to help residents achieve their fitness goals. Focus on legs and core to improve overall stability.
Be sure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.
Assistive Devices and Technology
An assistive device is a tool that can help an older adult complete a task that would be otherwise unsafe or difficult for them. These include:
- Mobility Aids: Canes, walkers, or rollators
- Footwear: Supportive, non-slip shoes
- Medical Alert Systems: Wearable devices for emergencies
- Vision and Hearing Aids: For assistance with vision and hearing
There is a wide range of fall prevention technology available. While this is a general overview, each person should consult a doctor to determine which device, if any, is best suited for them.
Additionally, it’s important to regularly review medications with a doctor to identify side effects that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired vision.
How Senior Living Communities Prioritize Fall Prevention
The goal of senior living communities is to provide peace of mind to families through their safe and secure environments. At SRG, we’re driven by the desire to create environments that enhance the quality of life of our residents and their families. Our trained staff is available 24/7 to assist with any mobility needs.
Our Zest Wellness program focuses on whole-person wellness. This ensures our residents have a range of activities to participate in, following the mind, body, and soul core principles.
- Mind: Intellectual and creative activities include art classes, music lessons, and university seminars.
- Body: Physical wellness encompasses a range of exercises, from gentle yoga to high-energy spin classes. Structured fitness classes are also designed to help with strength and balance.
- Soul: Spiritual wellness is fostered through deeper connection, including music therapy and community gardening.
In addition, our communities are designed with residents in mind. Wide hallways, even flooring, strategic lights, and grab bars located throughout are included in our communities to help with fall prevention in community buildings.
SRG Senior Living has regular safety assessments and environmental modifications to our communities. We want to ensure that we stay up to date with modern trends and that our communities remain safe and secure.
Fall Prevention Can Begin Today
Fall prevention is achievable through multiple strategies, including eliminating hazards at home, engaging in balance and strength exercises, and utilizing assistance devices and technology. Starting with small changes today can make a big difference over time through strengthening muscles and eliminating home hazards.
There is peace of mind knowing that you are living in a safe and secure environment. Proactive prevention is a huge factor in maintaining independence. SRG is here to help with prevention through training and exercises.
Learn more about SRG’s communities and safety features by visiting our website. If you’re interested in touring one of our communities or have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
