Fall Prevention Systems for Seniors in Richardson, TX
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According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 25% of Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. Not only does falling once double the risk of falling again, but the cost of treating the resulting injuries is projected to increase to over $101 billion by 2030.
As you can see, not only are falls detrimental to your health, but they're also costly. But investing in fall prevention systems can be the answer to your problems.
While they require an initial investment of your time and money, ultimately, they'll pay off when you see how much you reduce your fall risk. So read on for systems that seniors in Richardson, TX can use in their own daily lives.
Grab Bars and Handrails
Grab bars are very simple tools, but they're key to avoiding falls in seniors. Grab bars can go in:
- Bathrooms
- Hallways
- Bedrooms
No matter where they're placed, they'll give extra support where slips are most likely to occur. For example, the bathroom has wet floors and slippery surfaces, so a grab bar outside of the shower and another by the toilet can help immensely.
Install handrails along both sides of stairways and long hallways too. These can help seniors maintain balance when moving through the home.
In fact, both grab bars and handrails will give older adults the confidence to move independently, without relying as heavily on others.
Non-Slip Flooring and Mats
You may be an active older adult who still lives on their own easily. But you still need to protect yourself from falls, as they can happen to anyone, even younger people.
A part of active independent living safety is using non-slip flooring. You can easily do this by:
- Replacing loose rugs with non-slip mats
- Adding non-skid backing
- Using slip-resistant flooring materials
Two particular areas to focus on are the bathrooms and the kitchen. Non-slip bathmats and kitchen mats with firm grips will help prevent slipping, as water spills are common in these rooms.
Proper Lighting and Motion Sensors
If you can't see well, then chances are, you can't get around well either. You'll be more prone to running into obstacles, corners, and walls, and this can result in falls.
Improve visibility by installing brighter light bulbs. In addition, nightlights and motion-sensor lighting can help you see clearly at all times, especially when you get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
Motion-sensor lights will automatically turn on when someone's nearby, so this eliminates the need to fumble for switches. So you'll have peace of mind navigating your home, no matter what time it is.
Adjustable Beds and Lift Chairs
If you have physical health issues, then it may be difficult to get in and out of bed. You may even have problems sitting and standing from a chair, and both are things you have to do multiple times in a day.
To make things easier on yourself and to reduce your fall risk, consider getting an adjustable bed. It'll allow you to raise the head or foot of the bed to a comfortable position, so it'll be much easier to sit up safely.
Lift chairs are an immense help too. They gently raise you to a standing position, preventing the sudden strain or imbalance that often leads to falls.
Mobility Aids
Mobility aids for seniors can provide you with crucial stability, especially if you need extra balance support. Not only will it be easier to move around the house, but you'll be more able to do activities outside too.
There are several options available; for example, canes help with light assistance, while walkers and rollators (walkers with wheels and seats) are ideal for those who need more steady support.
Whichever you choose, they'll keep you balanced, especially on uneven surfaces or when you're moving for longer periods. Just make sure to have it properly fitted; otherwise, an improper fit can be hazardous and can lead to injuries.
Footwear and Orthopedic Support Systems
In addition to mobility aids, you should wear the right footwear and use orthopedic support systems. It's one of our best senior safety tips since simply changing your footwear can reduce your chances of tripping or slipping.
The right shoes should be non-slip and well-fitting, with supportive soles too. You can use orthopedic inserts or get shoes designed for stability, which can improve your balance and reduce foot pain as well.
Steer clear of loose slippers or shoes with slick bottoms.
Fall-Prevention Exercise Programs
Building strength and balance through exercise can reduce the chances of falls, and it can have mental health benefits too. For example, mindfulness walking will strengthen your body while clearing your mind. And if you do it with other people, you'll also fulfill the need for social connections, making exercise extremely beneficial.
Programs that focus on balance support for seniors include:
- Tai chi
- Yoga
- Balance classes
These can all improve muscle tone, coordination, and flexibility.
Smart Home Safety Systems
Smart home technology has become common in many households because of the convenience it provides. But for older adults, this tech can also play an important role in fall prevention.
These systems can:
- Monitor activity
- Detect unusual movement patterns
- Alert loved ones if a potential fall risk is detected
Many smart home systems also integrate with smart speakers or phones, so you can use voice commands for assistance. You can place sensors in hallways, bathrooms, and living spaces to get an extra layer of safety, as this ensures help is available whenever you need it.
Use These Fall Prevention Systems
Fall prevention systems are a necessity for all older adults, and not just for less able-bodied individuals.
Since falls can happen in one quick moment, even to the healthiest senior, it's important to have these systems in place. That way, you can retain your independence and health for as long as possible, and maintain your high quality of life.
Get in touch with us to schedule a tour so you can see what senior living in Richardson, TX, is like. The El Dorado Senior Living offers our residents a light linen service, as well as weekly housekeeping and maintenance, so they can live a stress-free life.