Falling at home is one of the most common causes of serious injuries among older adults. Although experiencing falls can be scary for both seniors and their loved ones, the steps that are taken immediately after a fall can make a significant difference in an older adult’s ability to recover quickly and without unnecessary complications. Here are some steps families can follow to help their loved ones heal while preventing further falls from occurring at home.
Check for Injuries
Check to see if your loved one can move his or her arms and legs after a fall, but don’t try to move him or her. If your parent has fractured or broken bones, moving him or her could aggravate those injuries. You’ll need to ask if he or she is in any type of pain. If your loved one has minor bruises or scratches, treat them with basic first aid supplies. Check for any signs of serious injury, such as bones sticking out or severe bleeding, bruising, or swelling. Call 911 immediately if you suspect your loved one has sustained a major injury. If your loved one injured his or head during the fall, make sure he or she is conscious and coherent. Even if your loved one is conscious, he or she could still have a concussion.
Fall-related injuries can make seniors susceptible to several long-term health conditions. Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Roseville seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Sometimes a fall may seem minor, and many seniors may try to brush off a fall out of the fear of losing their independence. However, even a senior who appears to be uninjured should schedule a medical examination to make sure a serious injury, such as a concussion, isn’t lurking beneath the surface.
Identify the Cause
There are many things that could contribute to a fall at home, and it’s important to identify the reason so it can be corrected immediately. Examine the layout of your parent’s home to make sure all the walking paths are clear and your loved one is able to reach commonly used objects without having to climb on a ladder. Certain medications should also be looked into, as some can have side effects, such as dizziness, that could cause older adults to lose their balance.
An increased risk of falls is one of the many challenges seniors may have to face. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elderly home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Explore Care Options
Seniors who experience serious injuries from falls may need assistance at home or specialized post-hospital care to ensure their safe recovery. Additionally, a fall could signify an aging adult needs help with performing daily activities, such as bathing or getting in and out of bed. For this reason, it’s necessary to talk to your loved one about the type of care he or she prefers so a caregiving arrangement can be put in place. This way, a fall recurrence can be prevented, and you’ll know your loved one will continue to be safe in his or her home environment.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the many ways you can reduce your loved one’s risk of falls. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Roseville Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at (916) 226-3737.