As we embrace the autumn months, we at Great Care know first-hand the importance of preparing seniors for colder weather — especially preventing falls.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that each year, more than one in four older adults aged 65 and older will fall. Among older Americans, falls are the number one cause of injuries and death from injury.

Prevention is key, says the CDC. That can start with making indoor and outdoor living environments safer, especially before the first freeze of the season. The CDC offers these helpful tips to make a home safe for seniors:

• Remove things you can trip over from stairs and places where you walk.
• Use the Check for Safety brochure to help identify and eliminate fall hazards from your home.
• Remove small rugs or use double-sided tape to keep rugs from slipping.
• Add grab bars in the bathroom—inside the bathtub and next to the toilet.
• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
• Have handrails and lights installed on all staircases.
• Make sure your home has lots of light.

The CDC suggests speaking up about fall prevention and safety when talking to healthcare professionals. Talk openly and tell the doctor right away if you have fallen, if you’re afraid you might fall, or if you feel unsteady.

Also, the CDC reminds seniors and their caregivers to review all medications with a doctor or pharmacist, and discuss side effects such as feeling dizzy or sleepy.

“Some medications, even over-the-counter and herbal supplements, can increase your fall risk,” the CDC says. “Do you get dizzy or lightheaded when you go from sitting to standing? CDC’s Postural Hypotensionpdf icon brochure has information on how to manage these symptoms.”

The CDC also suggests having eyes checked annually and update vision wear as needed, and to remember that cataracts and glaucoma limit vision. And have feet checked, including discussing proper footwear with your doctor and asking whether seeing a foot specialist (podiatrist) is necessary.

It’s important to remember seniors with Alzheimer’s are at a higher risk for falls and injury. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, as the disease progresses, patients may become unaware of the dangers that exist.

”Consider taking precautions to create a safe environment which can prevent dangerous situations from occurring and help maximize independence for as long as possible,” alz org says.

To help stay safe and avoid falls, click on the link below for a detailed home checklist:

https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/home_safety_checklist

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs, including respite care. Great Care is a non-medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (888) 240-9101 for more information.