Senior Fall Risk Management

What is Fall Prevention in the Home?

Fall prevention in the home refers to measures taken to reduce the risk of falls among seniors and other individuals with limited mobility. These measures can include things like installing grab bars in the bathroom, removing tripping hazards from the home, and providing adequate lighting throughout the living space. Additionally, it can be helpful to implement an exercise routine to improve balance and strength and to regularly review medications to ensure that they are not causing dizziness or other side effects that increase the risk of falling.

Where is the most common fall injury in the elderly?

Falls are the leading cause of injury in elderly patients. The most common fall injuries in this population include fractures, bruises, and head injuries. These types of injuries can be particularly serious for older adults because they may have underlying health conditions that can make it more difficult for them to recover. It's important for elderly patients to take steps to prevent falls, such as exercising regularly to improve their balance and strength and making their homes safer by removing tripping hazards and improving lighting.

What is the first step in preventing falls for a senior?

The first step in preventing falls in a patient is to assess their risk factors for falling. This can include factors such as their age, medical conditions, and medications they are taking. It's also important to assess their home environment to identify any potential hazards that could increase their risk of falling, such as poor lighting or tripping hazards. Based on this assessment, the patient and their healthcare provider can develop a plan to reduce their risk of falling. This may include recommendations for exercises to improve balance and strength, changes to their home environment, and the use of assistive devices.

What are the most commonly used methods to prevent falls?

There are several methods that can be used to prevent falls in the elderly. These include:

• Exercising regularly to improve balance and strength.
• Making the home safer by removing tripping hazards and improving lighting.
• Using assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, to help with mobility.
• Using medications carefully and as directed to avoid side effects that can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
• Having regular vision and hearing checkups to ensure that any impairments are identified and addressed.

Additionally, it's important for elderly individuals to wear sensible, non-slip shoes and to be aware of their surroundings to avoid falling. If a fall does occur, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

What are the best exercises to prevent falls?

There are several exercises that can help prevent falls in the elderly. These include:

• Single-leg stands: This involves standing on one leg and holding the position for as long as possible. It helps improve balance and leg strength.
• Leg raises: This involves standing and raising one leg in front of you, keeping it straight. It helps improve leg strength and balance.
• Toe taps: This involves standing and tapping your toes on the ground in front of you, alternating feet. It helps improve balance and coordination.

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, particularly if you have any existing medical conditions.

Which is the best example of a fall prevention system?

There are many different fall prevention systems available, and the best one for a particular individual will depend on their specific needs and circumstances. Some examples of fall prevention systems include:

• Fall detection alarms: These are devices that are worn by the individual and are triggered if they fall. The alarm will alert caregivers or emergency services so that they can respond quickly.
• Bed and chair sensors: These sensors are placed on the individual's bed or chair and will alert caregivers if they get up without assistance.
• Home safety assessments: This involves a trained professional coming to the individual's home to identify potential hazards and make recommendations for how to reduce the risk of falls.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program to improve the individual's balance and strength.

Why Choose Aviva In-Home Care for Senior Fall Prevention Services?

1. A model based on family-centered care
   Aviva works closely with your family, throughout the care process, to make informed decisions about the services and support the client and family receive.
2. Highly experienced staff
   An expert management team that understands healthcare delivery, caregivers with multiple years of experience, and an organization focused on continual staff training & education.
3. Nurse oversight of care
   Utilize the clinical expertise of RN supervision to ensure that we deliver a quality experience, are compliant with physician orders, and are continually improving.
4. Private, San Francisco-based business (not a franchise)
   Our focus is on the well-being of San Francisco's elderly residents - your community is OUR community.
5. Embedded Care Management
   We ensure optimal care coordination by providing 2 hours of weekly case management time (by our Client Care Manager) free of charge for each client.
6. Hands-on management by the owner
   Direct owner involvement in the administration of care, and communication with families.
7. Affiliation with a national network of home care agencies
   Member of The Seniors Choice, an organization that shares best practices, promotes continual learning/education, and develops service competencies within its network.