SAFETY ISSUES: FALL PREVENTION
PROBLEM
A.More than one out of four people 65 years and older fall each year. A review of your home can help prevent falls. Complete a My Falls-Free
Plan (see Table III.7) to help you and your caregiver identify problems and the need to have a referral to a specialist.
B.The greatest number of falls occur at night.
C.The most common times falls occur inside the home:
1.Toileting.
2.Walking to the bathroom.
3.Attempting to get out of bed.
4.Rolling out of bed.
5.Transferring from chairs.
6.Walking in the house without using assistative devices (walkers and canes).
7.Walking in hallways.
CAUSES
Your primary care provider and you should discuss your risk of falling. Most of the time it is a combination of factors that places you at risk for falls:
A.A previous fall makes you at the highest risk for another fall. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had any falls.
B.Medical problems that place you at risk for falls include arthritis, dizziness, blood pressure, diabetes, shortness of breath, heart problems, and having to go to the bathroom quickly.
C.Medicines, including over-the-counter medicines and herbals, may interact and cause problems with blood pressure, dizziness, and other side effects that put you at risk for falls. Ask your health provider or pharmacist to review your medications.
D.Alcohol and use of recreational drugs also increase your risk for falls.
PREVENTION
A.Review of your home to identify items that place you at risk is essential:
1.General home safety review:
a.Walk around each room to see if you have a clear path or if you have to walk around furniture. Your furniture may need to be moved to make a clear path.
b.Remove clutter.
c.Add side railings on both sides of stairs inside and outside the home.
d.Use nonslip rugs or even remove rugs to prevent tripping. Fix loose and torn carpeting.
e.Increase lighting by using higher-watt bulbs and nightlights. Add an overhead light at the top and the bottom of the stairway.
f.Wear shoes that fit your feet well and have solid, nonskid soles.
g.Wear shoes instead of slippers and wear shoes instead of going barefoot.
h.Coil or tape cords and wires next to wall so that you will not trip. Have an electrician put in another outlet.
i.Fix loose or uneven steps.
2.Bathroom safety review:
a.Add grab bars on the inside and outside of the shower.
b.Add at least one grab bar located at the toilet.
c.Add a nonslip bath mat in your tub or shower.
d.Use a nonslip mat to step on when getting out of the tub or shower.
e.Use a raised toilet seat.
f.Consider the need for a bedside commode.
3.Bedroom safety review
a.Place a lamp close to the bed so that you do not have to reach it from the edge of the bed.
b.Use a nightlight.
c.Use a comforter and blankets instead of long bedspreads that touch the floor.
4.Kitchen safety review:
a.Place bowls, plates, and spices on the lower level of your cabinets in order to get to them safely without having to stand on your toes to reach for them.
b.Never use a chair instead of a step stool.
B.Other safety tips:
1.Discuss the need for a personal emergency response system.
2.Carry a cell phone in your pocket.
3.Use a shoulder bag, fanny pack, or a backpack purse to leave your hands free.
4.Keep emergency numbers near each phone and posted on the refrigerator.
5.Limit alcohol to one drink a day to help prevent falls.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.Discuss the need for an eye examination.
B.Discuss the need for assistive devices such as canes and walkers.
C.Discuss the use of a Vial of Life to identify important information in case of an emergency: www.vialoflife.com/how_to_use_the_vial_of_life
Activity: Exercise is very important in maintaining balance:
A.Walk two or three times a week.
B.Do balance and strengthening exercises at least three times a week.
