Fall Prevention for Seniors in Egg Harbor Township, NJ
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fall related injuries are one the leading causes of hospitalization in older people, causing 3 million emergency department visits each year. Unfortunately, life-altering injuries like fractured hips and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are some of the most common results of falls in the home, with only 25% of people making a full recovery after a fall.
But it’s important to remember, that according to the National Council on Aging, falling isn’t a normal part of aging. It’s often indicative of something else, such as balance, infection, or injury. That’s why it’s important to reduce risks, especially for seniors, as the effects of falls can be more impactful.
At Visiting Angels, we understand how hard it is to constantly worry about the safety of your loved ones, which is why we provide resources like a comprehensive Safe & Steady ® Fall Prevention Resource Guide. It has a holistic, realistic plan to help family and friends make sure that their older family’s home is free of common hazards that cause slips, trips, and falls.
Why Is Fall Prevention Important for Seniors?
Reducing fall risk and injury prevention is important for your aging family members' safety and well-being.
Physically, falls can lead to serious injuries like fractures, making it harder for them to stay active and independent. Emotionally, the fear of falling can cause anxiety and diminish their confidence, impacting their mental health. Socially, falls can make them reluctant to participate in activities they love, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
The Risk of Falls During Transfer
One of the most common times a fall can happen is during transfers.
For example, getting in and out of the shower can be particularly hazardous due to slippery surfaces. Transitions from a chair to standing and standing to sitting require balance and strength, which may be compromised in seniors, leading to potential falls. Similarly, getting on and off the bed poses risks, especially when they are tired or during the night when poor vision can cause problems.
While these may seem like normal, everyday activities for most, they can pose a serious risk to seniors.
Check out some helpful transfer tips here.
Steps to Reduce the Risk of Falls at Home
Injury prevention from falls at home involves several important steps:
- Environment Changes:
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter.
- Balance and Strength:
- Ensure proper lighting in all areas, especially stairways and bathrooms.
- Encourage regular exercise programs like Tai Chi that focus on better balance and muscle strength.
- Precautions You Can Take:
- Install grab bars in the bathroom.
- Use non-slip mats.
- Ensure their footwear is sturdy and supportive.
- Assistance Devices:
- Equip them with assistive devices such as walkers, canes, or shower chairs.
- Asking for Help:
- Encourage them to ask for assistance when needed, whether for moving heavy objects, reaching high shelves, or during difficult transfers.
The 5 Ps of Fall Prevention
We understand that keeping tabs on all these changes may seem overwhelming.
When in doubt, these 5 Ps of Fall Prevention will guide you to solutions for your family member’s safety and well-being.
Pain
Assess and manage any pain your aging family members might experience regularly. Pain can lead to unsteady movements, increasing the risk of falls.
Personal Needs
Ensure their personal needs are met promptly. This includes regular bathroom visits and staying hydrated, which can prevent hurried movements that lead to falls.
Position
Encourage them to maintain proper posture and positioning, whether sitting, standing, or lying down. Good posture helps with balance and stability.
Placement
Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or climbing. Organize the home to minimize the need for risky movements.
Prevent Fall
Implement general fall prevention measures, such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars, and using assistive devices. Review and update these measures regularly, as needed.
Commitment to Your Senior’s Safety
Visiting Angels provides comprehensive risk assessment and older adult fall prevention services to help keep your loved ones safe.
Personalized Care Plans
Visiting Angels tailors care plans to address each senior's specific needs and potential fall risks. This personalized approach considers every aspect of the senior's environment and daily routine.
Professional Caregivers
The caregivers at Visiting Angels are highly trained in fall prevention techniques. They perform thorough home safety assessments, identifying and mitigating potential hazards like loose rugs, poor lighting, and cluttered pathways.
Fall Prevention Strategies
Implementing a proactive, evidence-based fall prevention program is essential. Caregivers can reduce the risk of falls by assisting with mobility, providing support during daily activities, and encouraging exercises that improve strength and balance.
Emergency Response Systems
Visiting Angels offers emergency response systems where immediate assistance is available at the push of a button. This technology provides an extra layer of security for seniors living independently.
Get Started With Fall Prevention from Visiting Angels
Constantly worrying about your loved ones can make you feel helpless, but Visiting Angels in the greater Egg Harbor Township area is here to help give you peace of mind.
Our team of healthcare providers can help with everything from assessing the home for fall hazards to providing care and companionship. Our goal is to keep your aging family members happily in their homes and help them retain a sense of security and independence.
Service areas include:
- Egg Harbor City, NJ
- Margate City, NJ
- Somers Point, NJ
- Mays Landing, NJ
- Brigantine, NJ
- Ventnor, NJ
- Longport, NJ
- Pomona, NJ
- McKee City, NJ
- Absecon, NJ
- Linwood, NJ
- Atlantic City, NJ
- Galloway, NJ
- Smithville, NJ
- Egg Harbor Township, NJ
- Pleasantville, NJ
- Batsto, NJ
- Northfield, NJ
- Port Republic, NJ
- Buena, NJ
- Landisville, NJ
- Newtonville, NJ
- Richland, NJ
- Hammonton, NJ
- Atlantic County, NJ
Contact the experts at Visiting Angels today for comprehensive information about fall protection services and other services designed to help your aging family members stay safe and healthy at home.
Give us a call at 609-641-7200 or or fill out our online form.
Free "Safe & Steady ® Fall Prevention Resource Guide"
Ready to take the first step toward protecting your aging loved ones from dangerous falls at home? Download our comprehensive "Safe & Steady ® Fall Prevention Resource Guide" for free.
Designed to empower families, this comprehensive toolkit provides a wealth of helpful resources:
- Identifies Risk Factors: Outlines internal and external risk factors, such as muscle weakness, poor eyesight, clutter, and slippery surfaces.
- Provides Fall Prevention Strategies: Offers practical tips such as home modifications, sensible footwear, eye exams, and modifying risky behaviors.
- Promotes Physical Activity and Nutrition: Highlights the importance of exercise and a healthy diet, including calcium and vitamin D, for strong bones and muscles.
- Offers Emotional and Social Support Guidance: Addresses the emotional and social impact of falls, encouraging social activities to improve well-being.
- Emergency Preparedness and Response: Details of steps to take after a fall, including how to get up safely and the importance of emergency response systems.
Have more questions? Contact Visiting Angels Egg Harbor Township for a complete list of fall prevention and elder care services.
Serving Egg Harbor Township & Atlantic County, NJ
Visiting Angels EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, NJ
3153 Fire Road Unit BEgg Harbor Twp, NJ 08234
Phone: 609-641-7200
Fax: 609-641-7110