Your parent’s or other senior loved ones’ abilities can affect their risk of having a fall. Do they have trouble with the following tasks:
Reaching overhead? Put commonly used items within easy reach. Move them to lower shelves and cabinets. If they must reach overhead ensure there is a safe and sturdy step stool available. Even picking up something off of the floor can have the potential to cause a fall. Bending over quickly can lead to dizziness, so if possible move the object close to a wall or something study that they can hang onto while bending over.
As we age getting in and out of the bathtub and shower are not as easy as it once was. Bathrooms are dangerous places in regards to falls, they have slippery, wet and slick surfaces as well as hard surfaces and confined spaces. Falling in the bathroom usually results in an injury, so it is important to be proactive in reducing the risk. Consider adding grab bars in the shower, a tub seat in the bath makes getting in and out not only safer but easier. Non-skid mats are helpful as is a hand held shower.
Getting in and out of a chair can be difficult as we age, avoid sitting on low furniture, chairs with arms make it easier and safer to get up. For those who have real difficulties getting in and out of a chair, lift chairs are a great solution. If balance becomes an issue during the aging process, your loved one may require the use of an assistive device to prevent a fall, such as a cane or walker. Consult your doctor or health care provider.
Taking a realistic look at your at your parent’s physical abilities and the daily tasks that they need to perform will give you a good idea, where they may need some assistance.
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