Fall Prevention for Seniors
Falls can have life altering consequences for seniors. A serious tumble may lead to injuries, expensive healthcare costs, mental health issues, and even death. That’s why it is essential to take steps to prevent a fall before it happens.
At Visiting Angels Flagstaff, we offer fall prevention strategies as part of our in-home care services. Our professional home care providers will help educate you and your senior loved one on the common risks associated with falls and the steps you can take to reduce them. By taking preventive measures, your family member can enjoy their senior years with the confidence and safety that they deserve from the comfort of their home.
Learn more about home care providers with Visiting Angels and what sets us apart.
Why Fall Prevention is So Important
Every year in the United States, more than 1 in 4 seniors experiences a fall, according to the National Safety Council. Additionally, over the past 10 years, the number of deaths from senior falls has skyrocketed by 60 percent, while emergency room visits have increased by a staggering 43 percent. Beyond physical injury, the emotional, mental, and financial toll from these incidents can be devastating. Many seniors end up moving into assisted living following a serious fall, relinquishing much of their cherished independence.
Older adults are at a much higher risk of falling than younger people due to the many lifestyle changes brought on by aging, such as:
- Diminished senses and reflexes.
- Cognitive impairment from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
- Side effects from medications which cause drowsiness and confusion.
- Urgency incontinence that causes them to rush to the bathroom.
- Lower body weakness.
- Nerve and blood vessel problems from conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
- Home safety hazards such as poor lighting, clutter, and slippery area rugs.
How Visiting Angels Can Help Reduce Senior Falls
Our agency recognizes that fall prevention is a top priority for seniors and their families. That’s why we help older adults feel more safe and secure in their environment through our flexible home care services. No matter what your loved one’s circumstances are, we will create a completely customized plan of care that addresses any factors that increase their fall risk.
Companion Care & Personal Care
Here are two examples of home care services where fall prevention plays a large role:
Companion care: Assists seniors by alleviating the load of household chores and other tasks, eliminating physical strain, and minimizing the risk of accidental injuries. Your loved one’s caregiver will maintain a clean and tidy home for them, reducing fall hazards, while also engaging in shared activities and meaningful conversation.
Personal care: Seniors who need more direct support will receive help with routines, including bathing, hygiene, mobility, and transfers to ensure these tasks are completed in a safe manner. Typically, these older adults would not be able to live on their own without added support.
Want to learn more about our friendly team members? Take a look at our staff page.
Home Safety Assessment
We offer a comprehensive home safety assessment as part of our services. A care professional will come to your senior loved one’s home to do a careful walkthrough and evaluate for potential fall risks and tripping hazards. Following this assessment, we will make suggestions for increasing safety in and around the home.
FAQ About Fall Prevention
At Visiting Angels Flagstaff, we understand that choosing a home care provider for your loved one takes a lot of consideration. It’s important to us that you are well informed about how we can help your loved one. Below, you’ll find several of the most popular questions we receive regarding fall prevention.
Do you provide fall prevention education for family members?
In addition to providing guidance and tips directly, our Safe & Steady Fall Prevention Guide is a helpful, downloadable resource we offer families. The guide is full of safety advice, and includes checklists for evaluating your loved one’s home and safety status.
How do I start fall prevention services for my senior family member?
When you’re ready to take the first step, contact Visiting Angels. We will set up a free initial consultation and home safety assessment at your loved one’s home in the Flagstaff area. During the first meeting, we will chat about their specific care requirements and any circumstances that could increase their odds of experiencing a fall. Based on our findings, we’ll create a plan of care that takes their unique needs into account.
What are my options for covering costs?
We strive to make home care affordable for families. Please visit our costs page for more information.
Click to read more home care questions and answers.
Local Flagstaff Resources
Flagstaff Area Medical Facilities
Despite our best efforts, falls, injuries, and illnesses will sometimes occur. Seniors need to be aware of where to go in these circumstances. Additionally, they should have regular checkups with their physician to stay on top of any health conditions that could lead to a fall.
The Flagstaff area has many options for both emergency and non-emergency healthcare facilities, including:
- Flagstaff Medical Center
- Coconino County Health Department
- NextCare Urgent Care Flagstaff
- North Country HealthCare
- Flagstaff Urgent Care
- Remedy Direct Primary Care
- Flagstaff VA Clinic
Area Community Services for Seniors
The Flagstaff area has so much to offer, from beautiful scenery to ample senior-friendly activities. Your loved one’s caregiver will happily drive and accompany them on local outings, as well as support them with mobility to ensure they can participate in a safe manner.
Here are several community services that support seniors and provide recreational opportunities in Northern Arizona:
- Joe C. Montoya Community & Senior Center: Offers a fitness center, library classes, and opportunities for seniors to socialize.
- Area Agency on Aging - NACOG: Hosts events, activities, vaccine clinics, and workshops throughout the area.
- Flagstaff Family YMCA: Has swim, yoga, and fitness classes available for older adults.
Get Started with Fall Prevention in Flagstaff
Reach out today to learn more about our fall prevention services and how we can help your loved one in Flagstaff enjoy a safer and happier quality of life.
Get started by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at 928-220-4100.
Visiting Angels: How to Plan if Your Aging Parent has Fallen
Fall Prevention & Safety Program Available For:
Bellemont, AZ; Clay Springs, AZ; Flagstaff, AZ; Forest Lakes, AZ; Heber, AZ; Holbrook, AZ; Joseph City, AZ; Lakeside, AZ; Leupp, AZ; Mormon Lake, AZ; Overgaard, AZ; Parks, AZ; Payson, AZ; Pinedale, AZ; Pinetop, AZ; Show Low, AZ; Snowflake, AZ; Star Valley, AZ; Sun Valley, AZ; Taylor, AZ; Whiteriver, AZ; Williams, AZ; Winslow, AZ; Woodruff, AZ; and Young, AZ.
Serving Flagstaff, Payson, ShowLow and Surrounding Areas
Visiting Angels FLAGSTAFF, AZ
1120 W University Ave #215Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-220-4100