I've been a caretaker of an elderly woman with dementia for over two years. I've seen the effects of this mental affliction, and how devastating it can be to loved ones. This is why I am a firm believer in seeking a professional diagnosis, so the patient may receive necessary care and treatment. Once diagnosed at the onset of symptoms, a plan can be devised. Through social interaction and daily care, my charge has achieved a higher quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you can make a difference. Love will find a way.
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Dementia and Your Loved One
Elderly Care And The Top Tips For Fall Prevention
Vickie Armstrong
What do you need to know about elderly care and slip and falls? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), three million adults 65 and over are treated in emergency rooms due to fall-related injuries annually. Whether you care for your spouse, a parent, a grandparent, or another older adult, take a look at the ways to prevent this type of accident.
Make Regular Vision Appointments
When was the last time your loved one had a vision check? Reduced vision or changes in a prescription can make it hard to see obstacles in the home. Poor vision can also make walking up or down steps a challenge. This makes slip or trip and falls more likely. Avoid this issue and schedule regular vision appointments with a doctor who specializes in senior eye care.
Discuss Home Modifications
Does the senior in your life have mobility or balance issues? Some medical conditions, injuries, and medications can make movements more difficult and increase fall risks. Home safety modifications can help your family member or other loved one to find their balance, navigate small spaces, and walk with no or minimal assistance.
Common fall risk-reducing home modifications vary by room. These may include handrails in hallways, a grab bar near the toilet and in the shower, non-skid mats or carpeting, night lights, or lift chairs. Along with these modifications, keep electrical and phone lines out of the way, remove clutter, and choose furniture that's easy to get into or out of.
Offer Extra Help
Even though home modifications can reduce hazards and increase overall safety, some seniors will still need additional assistance to navigate the indoor space. A fall doubles the risk of a repeat fall, according to the CDC. If your loved one has already fallen, has a recent injury, just had surgery, or has a new health diagnosis, they may need extra help.
If your parent, grandparent, or loved one doesn't immediately ask for help, offer your assistance, or hire a home caregiver. It's possible the senior doesn't think they need help or is embarrassed to ask.
Manage Health Conditions and Medications
Some types of chronic health conditions or daily medications can increase fall risks. If your loved one gets dizzy easily, loses their balance, or feels groggy or extreme fatigue, talk to their doctor about ways to manage these issues. The health provider can help your loved one to understand the impact of their condition or the medication on mobility-related slip and falls.
For more information about elderly care, contact a local company, like Polish Helping Hands.
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