In the elderly population, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries; in fact, according to the CDC, one out of three adults over the age of 65 falls every year. These falls lead to a wide range of ailments, including everything from bone fractures to potentially life-threatening traumatic brain injuries. In many cases these accidents are preventable, and there are a number of interventions that can make a home safer for a senior.

As part of a dedicated elderly care and independent living service, the professionals at Visiting Angels - Toms River have a great deal of experience in keeping the elderly safe, and they emphasize that there are steps that can be taken to prevent falls in this population.

So what are these steps? How can falls be prevented?

• Regular Exercise: The benefits of exercise cannot be over-stated, as this helps the senior population with balance, strength and agility. There are a number of exercises that are gentler in nature, and that work very well for seniors, including water jogging, power walking and tai-chi. 
• Monitor Medications: Check with the senior’s physician to assess the side-effects of any pharmaceutical or over-the-counter drugs they may be taking. Some medicines cause dizziness and drowsiness, and if an elderly loved one is taking one of these, you’ll want to ensure that they’re not walking around when the drug is prone to take effect.
• Check Vision: Many falls among the elderly occur because of loss of visual acuity. Thus, seniors should have at minimum one eye exam a year to ensure that they’re wearing the right prescription of glasses or contacts.
• Reduce Trip Hazards: Go through the senior’s home and root out any trip hazards that may exist. In addition, add grab bars to bathing areas and railings to all stairs. Lastly, make sure that lighting is adequate.

Perhaps the best approach to preventing falls is to make sure that the senior you love is not alone when an accident strikes. This is where the home care professionals at Visiting Angels - Toms River can be of great help. One of their caretakers can provide every level of service necessary, including everything from full live-in care to daily checks and meal prep.

Visiting Angels - Toms River has more information about fall prevention on their website, where you can even download a free PDF of a brochure that discusses this important topic. If you think it’s time to get professional and compassionate senior care for a loved one in the Toms River area, don’t hesitate to call this acclaimed home care service at (732) 240-1050.