Preventing falls among seniors is crucial for maintaining their safety and well-being. As the top cause of serious injuries for seniors, falls can cause life-altering issues or hospitalizations that rob them of their precious independence at home.

A trusted in-home care provider, such as Visiting Angels, can play a pivotal role in reducing the risk of falls for your aging loved one at home. We will equip you and your family with essential knowledge and action steps to lower the risk of hospitalizations and serious injury for your loved one at home.

Through our Safe and Steady® fall prevention program—specifically designed to mitigate slips, trips, and falls among the elderly—our caregivers receive specialized training to develop fall avoidance strategies tailored to each senior's individual needs and home environment. By fostering safe mobility and ensuring a secure living space, we empower seniors to uphold their independence and enjoy a high quality of life with confidence.

Why Fall Prevention Is Important for Seniors

Fall prevention is paramount for seniors because it can drastically impact their safety, well-being, and quality of life. Beyond the physical injuries they can cause, falls often lead to a loss of confidence and increased fear of falling again, which can further limit mobility and independence.

Seniors are more vulnerable to falls due to risk factors such as:

• Decreased strength
• Poor coordination
• Limited mobility
• Reduced eyesight
• Hearing loss
• Stiff or painful joints
• Cognitive disorders
• Taking multiple medications

Seniors are also more likely to suffer significant injuries when falls occur. Hip fractures are particularly common and dangerous for them. The recovery period can take up to a year, may require transitional care at home, and can be life-threatening. Most seniors never fully recover from a hip fracture, which can cause them to lose their autonomy at home.

You can decrease your loved one’s risk of falling by making changes in their home environment and being aware of their health changes. Assess your aging parent’s fall risk with the CDC’s Timed Up and Go test.

How to Start the Safe and Steady ® Fall Prevention Program?

When you contact your local home care office, a Visiting Angels care coordinator will set up a free home care consultation with you and your senior. The coordinator will develop a personalized home care plan and recommend a caregiver suited to your loved one’s needs.

Your loved one will receive compassionate, dedicated care—and you will gain peace of mind knowing they are safe.

Contact us or call 800-365-4189 to request more information about our fall prevention program.

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FAQs About Fall Prevention

What Are Signs Indicating My Loved One Is at Risk of Falling?
Signs that indicate your loved one may be at risk of falling include unexplained bruises or injuries, difficulty getting up from a seated position, holding onto furniture or walls for balance, and changes in their usual walking pattern or gait.

These signs may suggest reduced strength, balance issues, or potential medication side effects affecting stability. It's important to observe these signs and consider a fall-risk health assessment to implement preventive measures and ensure their safety at home.

How Can Home Care Help Reduce Fall Risk?
Visiting Angels caregivers can help reduce fall risk through several types of home care. With companion care, we help your loved one maintain a safe, tidy home and help with day-to-day tasks such as light housekeeping, laundry, and errands.

If your loved one’s health increases their fall risk, personal care services can help with activities such as dressing, bathing, and mobility. Fall prevention is key in several other Visiting Angels programs, including:

• Alzheimer's care
• Dementia care
• Post-hospital home care

How Can Families Reduce the Risk of Falls at Home?
Most dangerous falls occur in or around the home. Visiting Angels can help you identify risk factors, such as:

• Getting a new mobility device
• Lack of grab bars in the bathroom
• Loose rugs or flooring
• Obstacles in the pathway
• Recent illness or medication changes

We’ll provide a home safety guide and checklist with easy modifications to reduce your loved one's risk of falling at home. Education topics include:

• Design changes to reduce fall risk at home
• Environmental risk factors that increase fall risk
• Lifestyle changes to improve your senior’s balance
• Physical, social, and emotional health impacts of falls on older adults
• Precautions you can take at home

What Are Some Exercises Seniors Can Do To Improve Balance And Strength?
Seniors can benefit from exercises like walking, tai chi, and yoga that improve balance and flexibility. Strength-training exercises using resistance bands or light weights can also help enhance muscle strength and stability.

Our professional caregivers can help implement these exercises safely and ensure they are appropriate for your loved one's fitness level.