No Place Like Home
Question: My elderly mother lives on her own in a small house and seems to be managing pretty well, but is a little unsteady on her feet. I’m concerned about her having a bad fall. Are there some ways for us to lessen the risks of falling?
Answer: Yours is an often expressed concern. Falling is one of the most common hazards for seniors. The chances of falling increase with age due to factors that include: medication side effects, slowed reaction time, impaired vision, weak muscles, and reduced flexibility. Added to these risk factors are environmental conditions, mostly household hazards, as the majority of falls occur at home. Falls can be the most devastating of home accidents, resulting in strains, sprains, broken bones and more. In fact, just the fear of falling can be a problem because it tends to limit the activities of daily living. Fear also makes the body tense, actually increasing the risk of falling.
Health Canada’s “Safe Living Guide” contains these practical pointers on how seniors can reduce the risk of falling:
HOUSEHOLD ENVIRONMENT
- Make sure your home has adequate lighting, particularly around entrances and stairways. Keep a supply of light bulbs and nightlights on hand. Replace these right away when burnt out.
- Carpets and rugs should be attached firmly to the floor.
- Keep hallways and stairways free of clutter and cords.
- Have grab bars securely installed by the bath, shower and toilet.
- Consider using a hand-held shower and shower/bath seat as well as non-slip mats or strips.
- Raise furniture (bed, sofa, toilet seat) to a height that is easier to manage.
PERSONAL HABITS
- Keep physically active. Consult with your doctor and then engage in appropriate weight bearing, stretching, and balancing exercises on a regular basis.
- Have your vision and hearing tested regularly and use the prescribed aids-hearing aids, glasses, etc.
- Use walking aids if necessary, making sure they are adjusted properly for you.
- Take great care with medications and their possible side effects. Consult with your doctor and pharmacist, particularly regarding multiple medication interactions.
- Pay close attention to the surface you are walking on and when possible keep your hands free for better balance.
- Get in and out of the tub or shower slowly and carefully, if possible have a caregiver on hand to provide light assistance and security.
These are all good ways to reduce the risk of falling. Developing good personal habits and being more aware of one's surroundings will greatly reduce the risk of falling. This in turn should help to build the confidence necessary to lead a more active, fulfilling life. Falling does not have to be an inevitable part of aging.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a recommendation for a specific course of action.
