While circus clowns and comedians may stir audiences to laughter over such stunts as slipping on a banana peel, there’s nothing funny about falling when it comes to older adults, who happen to be at a greater risk for serious injuries that could lead to a lengthy rehabilitation process. Not only that, but there’s a lesser known complication that frequently arises from a senior’s fall: a fear of falling again which is significant enough to impact quality of life and health.
As the saying goes, “Once bitten, twice shy.” It’s normal – and practical – for a loved one who has fallen to want to take precautions to stop a subsequent fall. Yet for many, the fear of falling impedes important physical activity, resulting in weakness and reduced balance confidence, each of which can actually increase the chance of falling again.
Instead, it’s necessary for older adults to:
- Strengthen muscles. Ask the doctor and/or physical therapist for appropriate exercises to engage in after a fall. Building strength is an extremely important component to protecting against future falls.
- Assess the house. Walk through the older adult’s home to check for any cords, clutter, throw rugs, etc. which can cause a tripping hazard. Ensure there’s adequate lighting and install grab bars in the bathroom and anywhere else extra support might be helpful.
- Discuss it. Senior loved ones may feel embarrassed for having fallen, but it’s worthwhile to talk about what occurred to be able to understand what precautionary measures can be taken to make sure that it doesn’t occur again.
It is also helpful for seniors to set goals with the help of a medical professional, and to begin to work on achieving them. The goals should be reasonable and fairly easily attainable however, to instill confidence; for example, having the ability to walk up and down the stairs independently while holding the handrail within the next fourteen days, or walking the complete length of the backyard within one month.
Once a goal has been set, figure out the steps needed to achieve that goal. What types of activities will help strengthen the muscles required to go up and down the stairs, or to take a lengthier walk? And in case the goal is not achieved, figure out what prevented the accomplishment, and what additional steps could be taken to set and reach a new goal.
Most importantly, make sure to provide encouragement and support to cheer a loved one on towards regaining his or her self-assurance and confidence and to lessen any fear.
To get more advice on fall prevention, or to arrange for a free in-home safety assessment, reach out to the aging care experts at Independence-4-Seniors, top providers of home care in Hinsdale, any time at (630) 323-4665.