Each year, millions of adults over age 65 fall, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention one out of every five of these falls leads to serious injuries. If your elderly loved ones keep falling it is important that action be taken and identify why they keep falling - such as identifying risks in their environment such as home safety issues and encouraging physical activity so that we can reduce their chances of injury. 
 
Elderly Fall Risk Factors 
It is well-established that falls can be dangerous for older adults. Unfortunately, however, many do not realize the increasing risks from repeated falls are serious enough to increase the chances of serious injuries such as broken bones or head trauma, leading to permanent disabilities for your loved one as a result of repeated falls. 
 
WINZ Medical Alarm Though initial shock and adrenaline from a fall may make injuries difficult to detect, you should keep an eye out for any ongoing or worsening pain in the hours and days following. Any sudden sharp or prolonged pain coupled with dizziness, confusion or agitation could indicate serious harm and be an indicator of serious harm. 
 
Chronic health conditions, including osteoporosis, arthritis and neurological diseases like Parkinson's, as well as heart disease, high blood pressure, vision loss, sarcopenia (age-related muscle weakness) and diabetes all increase the risk of falling. Poor balance and weak muscles in particular in legs reduce your loved one's ability to respond quickly to environmental hazards or recover quickly after accidents such as tripping or slipping occur. 
 
After experiencing a fall, your loved one's doctor should also conduct an in-depth medication evaluation to make sure none of their prescribed medicines worsen balance or impair mobility. Sometimes a physician may suggest the use of a walker or wheelchair as a solution; this decision must always be carefully considered when dealing with older adults. 
 
 
If an elderly family member lives independently, it is vitally important that you check in regularly both in person and via telephone or email to assess their health, look out for signs of falls, encourage open dialogue with them and quickly identify any changes in their ability or emotional state. 
 
Your loved one may experience falls for various reasons, so by identifying their causes and providing a safe home environment as well as using technology like personal alarms to reduce injury risk and keeping in regular contact you can help decrease their risk of harm. Should they sustain injuries you can also offer support during recovery time reducing fear of falls and making return easier. You can learn more about preventing falls among senior citizens by downloading our free guide below; just click the link! 

My website: https://familyr.co.nz/medical-alarm/