The statistics are sobering; accidental falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults in the US, and accounted for no less than $34 billion in medical costs in 2013. If you or your aged relatives are living in a nursing home or assisted living facility, it is incumbent upon the staff there to ensure that they do as much as possible to prevent falls among their residents. 

As a legal office that specializes in malpractice, wrongful death and nursing home neglect, the team at Reed Law Offices PC, LLC has dealt with many cases involving falls, and they emphasize that there are a number of steps these facilities can take to prevent them from happening.

So what are some steps that can be taken to prevent falls?

• Lighting: As we age, our ability to see in lower lighting conditions is reduced. To accommodate these changes, make sure that seniors have a night-light, a lamp within reach from the bed, illuminated switches, and increased incandescence throughout their living environment.
• Assistive Devices: Ensure that stairways have railings on both sides and there are non-slip treads on the steps.
• In The Bathroom: Toilets should either have raised seats or arm rests installed. In the shower or tub, there should be grab bars for easier entry and exit, and a non-slip bathmat.
• Other Measures: Talk to the staff of the home and make sure they are aware of the side-effects of any medications taken, such as dizziness or weakness which can lead to a fall. Also, homes should promote senior exercise, which helps retain strength and balance.

Most nursing homes and assisted living facilities will have these measures in place; however, if you feel that you or a loved one is in a facility that has not taken enough measures to prevent a fall that led to an accident and serious injury, be sure to contact a nursing home abuse attorney at Reed Law Offices PC, LLC. They will fight to make sure you or your senior loved one get a fair settlement. To learn more about this dedicated legal practice, visit their website or simply call (402) 933-0588 today.