As your senior parent ages, you’re likely developing concerns that they could fall and get hurt, especially if they live alone. After all, falls are a leading cause of death and injury for those over the age of 65, affecting 1 in 4 seniors each year in the United States. 

Fortunately, most slips and trips are preventable, provided that seniors are equipped with proper support and care. At Visiting Angels Farmington/Cape Girardeau, MO, we offer comprehensive fall prevention services as part of our personalized in-home care plans. With the help of their caregiver “Angel”, your parent can continue to live independently in the comfort of their own home without the fear of falling. 

If in-home care is an unfamiliar topic for you, we explain what home care is.

Why Fall Prevention is Crucial for Older Adults 

When an individual suffers an injury as a result of a fall, it can take a massive toll on their overall quality of life. A hip fracture or head injury may result in a life-changing disability or even death. To make matters worse, the trauma from a fall isn’t just physical. The cost of a hospital stay or treatment can be financially debilitating for seniors. They may also become worried about experiencing a repeat fall, leading them to decline invitations and become socially isolated. 

Seniors are at a much higher risk of falling than younger adults due to the many lifestyle changes brought on by aging, including:

• Diminished hearing, eyesight, and reflexes. 
• Certain medical conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, affect balance, causing seniors to lose steadiness.
• Urgency incontinence can lead to seniors rushing to the bathroom, increasing the chance of a fall.
• Cognitive impairment from dementia or Alzheimer’s. 
• Side effects from some medications can cause confusion, drowsiness, or dizziness.
• Home safety hazards like slippery floors, poor lighting, or clutter. 
• Snowy and icy conditions, plus dark evenings during the wintertime make it easier for seniors to trip. 

How Visiting Angels Can Help Reduce Senior Falls 

Our agency recognizes that fall prevention is of the utmost importance to seniors and their families. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping older adults feel more safe and secure through our home care services. We also understand that your parent has a unique set of circumstances that can make them more susceptible to falling. Their personalized care plan will address the physical, emotional, and environmental factors that increase their odds of experiencing a fall. 

Companion Care & Personal Care 

We offer a wide variety of home care services which all incorporate fall prevention. Your parent’s caregiver will perform tasks to support their safety based on their particular situation. Here are two types of home care where fall prevention is often at the forefront:

Companion care - Their care provider will happily engage in recreation and meaningful conversation with the senior, while also keeping the household tidy and free of potential tripping hazards. Older adults can rest assured that their caregiver is tending to household upkeep so that they don’t have to compromise their own safety. 

Personal care - This service is ideal for seniors who experience limited mobility and struggle to complete basic hygiene or other activities, such as bathing and grooming, in a safe manner. These older adults would most likely not be able to live on their own without the support of a caregiver. 

Click to view a complete list of our flexible, non-medical home care service options.

Home Safety Assessments

Following your initial consultation, one of our professional team members will visit your loved one’s home to evaluate their surroundings. They’ll take note of potential household risks and recommend safety modifications. After the thorough walk-through, Visiting Angels will formulate a care plan that prioritizes your parent’s safety and security.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Prevention

Hiring a caregiver for your cherished family member requires thoughtful consideration. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled several frequently asked questions regarding our fall prevention services. 

Are your caregivers trained in fall prevention?

Each of our team members undergoes extensive training that covers fall prevention and safety strategies. 

How do I start fall prevention services for my senior loved one?

Once you’re ready to take the first step, simply reach out to Visiting Angels. One of our care coordinators will happily schedule a free initial consultation at your parent’s home in the Farmington area. At this meeting, we’ll discuss their specific care needs, including factors that could increase their anxiety about falling. 

Read more about what we’ll discuss during your free consultation.

What home safety modifications do you implement?

Each senior has a different household environment with varied requirements. However, many of our clients receive the following modifications:

• Removing clutter in walkways.
• Putting frequently used items within close reach. 
• Securing rugs that have the potential to shift or slide around the floor. 

Can Visiting Angels help with mobility and transferring?

Caregivers are able to assist seniors with safe transfers and mobility, both in and outside of the home. For instance, some older adults need help getting in and out of bed or walking to the bathroom. They can also aid seniors in utilizing mobility devices, including canes and walkers. 

You can find more answers to commonly asked questions on our FAQ page. 

Helpful Resources for Farmington, MO, Seniors

At Visiting Angels Farmington/Cape Girardeau, MO, keeping seniors informed and engaged is one of our top priorities. Below, you’ll find resources for medical facilities and senior recreational opportunities to help your parent stay connected to the community. 

Did you know that our agency owners are from the Farmington, MO community? Get to know more about us.

Medical facilities 

Despite taking preventative measures, illnesses and falls still occur, and it’s important that your parent knows where to go in the event of an emergency or medical episode (in addition to contacting 911, if necessary). 

• Parkland Health Center
• Mercy Hospital Jefferson
• Iron County Medical Center
• Farmington Medical Clinic
• Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health
• Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital
• Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital 

Farmington-area Senior Community Services

When your loved one partners with Visiting Angels, their caregiver will happily drive and accompany them on local outings, as well as provide walking assistance for seniors with limited mobility. It’s vital to us that your parent continues enjoying life without the burden of safety concerns. Here are several area services that help enhance the well-being of older adults:

• Farmington Oaks Senior Center: A safe and fun place for seniors to relax and socialize through games, classes, and events. 
• Farmington Civic Center: Has a pool, gymnasium, walking track, and much more, including a senior discount. 
• Aging Matters (Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging): The authority on senior health and safety in Southeast Missouri. 

Get Started With Fall Prevention in Farmington

When it comes to protecting your loved one, the sooner you seek out support for them, the better. Don’t wait for a devastating fall to occur. Let’s work together to ensure your parent, or any senior loved one in your life, stays active, independent, and steady on their feet. 

Schedule a free consultation. Just fill out our contact form or call us at 573-664-1722. 

Fall Prevention & Safety Program Available For:

Cape Girardeau County, MO, De Soto, MO, Farmington, MO, Iron County, MO, Madison County, MO, Northeast Washington, MO, Perry County, MO, Ste. Genevieve County, MO, St. Francois County, MO.