Why Fall Prevention Matters
Falls are among the greatest health risks in old age. A single fall can lead to broken bones, a long hospital stay, and permanent loss of independence. The causes are varied: declining muscle strength, balance disorders, vision problems, or medication side effects. The good news: with targeted fall prevention, the risk in everyday life can be noticeably reduced.
5 Everyday Actions for Fall Prevention
- Wear non-slip shoes: Firm, well-fitting footwear with a non-slip sole provides more stability when walking than slippers or socks.
- Get up slowly: First remain seated briefly, then stand up slowly – this prevents dizziness and balance problems.
- Use walking aids regularly: A walker or cane increases safety when walking – but only if they are used consistently.
- Remove tripping hazards: Take away loose rugs, cables, or objects lying around. Slippery floors and high door thresholds are also sources of risk.
- Switch on adequate lighting: Especially at night on the way to the toilet. Motion detectors and night lights create safety.
Making the Home Fall-Safe
Many falls happen at home. With a few adjustments, the home can be made considerably safer: grab bars in the bathroom and by the toilet, non-slip mats in the shower and tub, clear paths without obstacles, and easily reachable light switches. A height-adjustable bed and a raised toilet seat additionally make getting up safely easier.
Recognizing and Documenting Risk
Observe in which situations unsteadiness occurs – when getting up, at night, or after taking certain medications. Such observations help in taking targeted countermeasures. With mendracare, you can record fall events and risk situations in the daily log and discuss them within the care team. This way, patterns can be identified and fall prevention specifically adjusted.
