What Are the Fall Prevention Strategies?
Posted on 20th April 2023
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among people aged 65 and over. To help reduce this risk and keep older adults safe, it is important to understand fall prevention strategies that can be implemented in their daily lives. Read on to discover some effective fall prevention techniques designed specifically for older adults!
Identifying Risk Factors
The Leicestershire Training Team offer Falls Prevention Training which prepares and educates staff in fall prevention procedures and strategies. Being aware of risk factors can be the best defence in preventing falls! Factors such as age, vision impairment, muscle weakness and balance problems contribute to an individual's chance of taking a tumble. Additionally, medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness along with environmental hazards like slippery surfaces or poor lighting should not be overlooked. Addressing any underlying medical conditions could also help reduce one’s chances of having a fall - possibly saving them from injury down the line!
Exercising Regularly
Exercise is a key factor in helping seniors stay safe & independent and is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle while reducing your risk of falls. Incorporating fitness programs that improve strength, balance, coordination and flexibility into one's daily routine can decrease their chances of falling. Engaging activities such as walking, water aerobics classes or resistance training with weights or bands provide an effective way to help maintain physical health for those over 65 years old. Their physiotherapist will be able to advise you on the best standing or chair exercises to which make the biggest impact.
Making Home Modifications
Home modifications can be a great way to lessen the risk of falls. Think grab bars in your bathroom and shower, replace slippery rugs with slip-resistant mats, install handrails along stairways for extra stability, increase lighting throughout the home to improve visibility as you walk around, keeping pathways clear from obstructions. All simple yet effective steps that help promote safer living! Contact the Leicestershire Training Team to arrange your Falls Prevention Training, so your staff and services users receive the best fall prevention care and support.
Using Assistive Devices
Assistive devices such as walking sticks and three-wheeled delta frames can be invaluable in providing extra stability and support for individuals when walking, standing or standing from a seated position. To ensure their effectiveness, it is important to use them correctly and wear shoes with non-skid soles that fit properly, this helps reduce the chance of slipping or tripping on uneven surfaces. The Leicestershire Training Team offer specialised Falls Prevention Training to show staff how to use these pieces of equipment properly.
Conclusion
Fall prevention strategies are important for reducing the risk of falls in older adults. Identifying any underlying medical conditions that may increase an individual’s risk for falling is essential as well as making necessary home modifications to reduce environmental hazards in the home. Regular exercise can also help improve strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility which will reduce an individual’s risk for falling as well as using assistive devices such as walking sticks and three-wheeled delta frames when needed to provide additional support when walking or standing up from a seated position.
For more information on Fall Prevention courses we offer at the Leicestershire Training Team please click here: Falls Prevention Training
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