Open a Discussion on Senior Accident Prevention
Asking Senior Safety Questions Now Could Save Troubles Later
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) estimates 44 million Americans (equaling 55% of the population age 55 and older) have this disorder. Experts note that osteoporosis puts older adults at risk of fractures; 87% of fractures in adults age 65 and older is from falls.
An increased risk of falls is not a senior’s only concern. Everything from back sprain to car accidents are more likely, due to changes ranging from muscle loss to vision problems.
Spurring a Loved One's Awareness of Possible Health Dangers
There’s no doubt that it can be hard to point out potential physical limitations without hurting someone’s pride. There are questions that can help probe how aware they are of potential problems and what, if any of steps they’ve taken to address these issues.
Among the questions they might want to try asking an older loved one:
- When was the last time they had their vision checked? They should be having regular eye exams.
- Have they checked with their doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of their medication? Sometimes a drug or a combination of drugs may be making a senior drowsy or unbalanced and thus limiting his/her activities. Someone who doesn't feel stable isn't going to climb a ladder to change a light bulb. The next thing they know there's not enough light in the house and wham! There's a fall.
- Are they drinking? It doesn't have to be a lot. Remind them everyone's metabolism slows down with age, so that people in their 60s or older may not be able to handle the same number of drinks that barely affected them in their 40s or 50s.
- Have they had their circulation checked? As age increases, circulation in the extremities slows down. That could mean a loved one is having balance problems. The solution may be as simple as suggesting they get up from the bed or a chair a little more slowly.
- Have they considered a walking support? A cane or other support device can help provide better balance for seniors.
Simple Options For Accident Prevention
Next time a caregiver visits a loved one it could be a good idea to see what might be needed to prevent accidents. Is there an anti-slip mat in the bathtub? Is it long enough? Maybe a mat's no longer enough and the tub and/or shower needs grab bars or a safety rail.
How good is the lighting in their home? Does it really seem adequate? Any bulbs burnt out?
Is the smoke detector working? When was the last time it was checked? Is there a carbon monoxide detector? If not, maybe it's time to consider one.
Get the loved involved in the discussion. Find out what steps they've already taken for accident prevention. Is there anything they feel they're having more trouble with? For example, maybe they're finding it harder to bend down and lift pots and pans from lower cupboards. Then maybe they need those items moved to a higher level. Or perhaps strategically place grippers could help them maintain their balance while bending over.
Exercising Towards Independence
Finally, remember that various types of exercises can play a major role in helping a loved one maintain their independence. It can start with something very simple: exercises for better breathing can help keep blood pressure from dropping, promote better sleep and ultimately prevent falls.
Look for a strength training program to help them maintain muscle mass. Working with soup cans from the pantry can start as a good lighter weight lift and don't require extra expenditures.
There are even exercises to help loved ones who are chair bound. Charlene Torkelson has had a great book out for years, called "Get Fit While You Sit" ($10.17 from Amazon.com.)
Oh...and don't forget how much most of us need our own exercise programs. Caregivers might consider asking their loved ones to exercise with them, as a favor--and then both parties stay in shape and stay independent longer.
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