Ways to Prevent a Patient from Falling
Home care is a better way to care for elderly adults who require help. Furthermore, it is less of a worry for the loved ones whose lives are affected by the illness. The older adult gets to stay at home, but it is also convenient for the caregiver to go to work or other things around the house. Family members are often a little reluctant about having home care because although another person can take care of their loved one, accidents may happen, for instance, falling. The risk of falling is higher among the elderly or those with diseases like dementia or Alzheimer’s.
When you are young, falling is less likely to be harmful, but it could be detrimental for the elderly. As we get older, we become more fragile. Our bones become weaker; our mobility starts to lessen. Older adults are less likely to tell their home health aide that they have fallen to avoid going to the hospital as the care provider; you have to ensure your patient’s safety while with them. As a home health aide, here are a few things to do to prevent your client from falling.
A Balanced Diet
Protein, calcium, and other vitamins are essential for optimum health. Providing a well-balanced diet to older adults prevents weakness, poor fall recovery, and risk of injury. This also will help to reduce the impact of a fall because calcium is beneficial for healthy bones.
At-Home Exercise
For any patient at risk for falls, a regular exercise regime will help improve balance and leg strength. Exercises like walking, T’ai Chi, and aquatic exercises are not too strenuous for most elder adults. Furthermore, as the home care provider, you should consult with the patient’s doctor to ensure that any of these exercises are safe for them. The doctor could suggest other suitable activities for the patient.
Eye Doctor
Poor eyesight could take part in the result of falling for older adults. It is not uncommon in the elderly for objects to appear closer or farther away than they are. They sometimes fail to perceive other items in their path as well. You can avoid this by visiting the doctor to ensure that their perspective is being affected or that their spectacles are the most recent prescription.
Medications
Be watchful of the medicines your patients are taking; sometimes, a combination of certain drugs can cause unwanted drowsiness. If the patient is consuming more than four medications concurrently, you should develop a comprehensive prescription management plan. Be sure to ask their doctor or pharmacist to review the medications they are taking.
Reducing Home Hazards
There are plenty of obstructions in elderly adult homes that could increase their risk of falling. The redecoration of the house is necessary to avoid slips and falls on dangerous objects. Ensure pathways are well lit and clear of obstructions, and all rugs are firmly fastened. The bathrooms should have safety railings as well in the kitchen and bedroom if needed.
Risk-taking Behaviors
Elderly adults overestimate their ability to perform certain activities. For example, standing on unsteady chairs, moving without assistance, and climbing ladders. They are just doing things they used to do when their mobility and balance were better. It is also a sign of them demonstrating that they are still independent. You want to make sure that your patients are not doing these things to avoid falling.
Well-fitted Shoes
Make sure they wear shoes that fit. If it is loose, they are more likely to trip and fall. There are many non-slip shoes on the market that a loved one may purchase for them. You want to avoid slippers or them going barefoot.
Getting Assessed for Fall Risk
If your patient or loved one is prone to the risk of falling, consult your doctor on the following:
- Impaired strength and balance
- Maneuverability impaired
- Cognitive impairment
- Nutritional issues
- Medications
- Neurological issues; for example, Parkinson or stroke
- Musculoskeletal issues, for example, arthritis, foot issues, joint replacement, and deformity
- Chronic illnesses, for example, osteoporosis, lung diseases, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes
- Previous falls
Conclusion
Old age brings weakness, poor eyesight, and low mobility. As a home care provider, you must make sure you can prevent your patients from falling. Rearranging the furniture, be sure they are wearing the correct footwear, or have their eyesight checked every year are just a few things that can be done to avoid your patients from falling. As a nurse you want to work for the best, TLC nursing has a lot to offer nurses who want to provide their caring talent all over New England.