As we mark Falls Prevention Week, it’s an important reminder of the dangers falls pose to older adults. At Home Instead Epping Forest, we understand that a fall can be a significant setback for older people, leading to serious injury or loss of independence. Yet, with the right support, falls are often preventable, and older adults can continue to live independently in their homes.
Our team at Home Instead Epping Forest is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of older adults by equipping our Care Professionals with specialised training in falls prevention. We take pride in offering personalised support that helps our clients maintain their independence while reducing the risk of falls. Here’s how we work to keep our clients safe:
One of the key ways to prevent falls is by staying active. As we age, our muscle strength naturally declines, and our balance may become less stable. However, frailty is not an inevitable part of growing older. Regular physical activities that focus on strength and balance can help improve mobility and reduce the chances of a fall.
Exercises like Tai Chi, gentle dancing, or using the stairs can make a big difference. But it’s crucial to ensure these activities are suited to the individual’s fitness level. It’s always best to consult a GP about suitable exercises.
The home environment plays a major role in preventing falls. Simple changes around the house can create a safer living space for older adults.
Ensure floors are clear of obstacles, cords are taped down, and carpets are secured.
Installing grab rails and using non-slip mats can greatly reduce the risk of accidents.
Adequate lighting is essential, especially around stairways and hallways.
Maintaining walkways, keeping steps clear, and adding handrails or gritting icy paths during winter months can help prevent outdoor falls.
Maintaining overall good health is another critical factor in preventing falls. Regular health check-ups can identify any issues early on and prevent future accidents.
Eye and hearing tests should be up to date, as poor vision or hearing can increase the risk of falling.
Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, contributing to falls. Speak to a GP to ensure your prescriptions are safe.
Any sudden weakness, stiffness, or pain should be reported to a doctor immediately. These could be early signs of a decline in mobility that could lead to a fall.
Proper nutrition is often overlooked in fall prevention. A healthy, balanced diet is crucial in maintaining muscle strength, bone density, and overall energy levels.
Prioritise high-quality proteins, carbohydrates, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fibre-rich foods can support digestion and maintain physical strength.
Dehydration can cause dizziness, increasing the risk of a fall. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Alcohol can impair balance and coordination, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.
If mobility becomes a concern, it’s important to seek support sooner rather than later. A GP can assess overall health and suggest mobility aids that can make daily living activities safer.
Items like walking sticks, walkers, or even stair lifts and grab rails can provide extra support.
Hearing aids, shower seats, and bath lifts can improve balance and help with daily tasks.
Devices worn around the neck or wrist, which can be pressed in case of a fall, provide peace of mind both for older adults and their families.
Home Instead Epping Forest is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of older adults in their own homes and the specialist training our Care Professionals receive, enables them to provide personalised, high-quality care to our clients.
Led by Debbie Dore, our Head of Care Professional Training, the program covers everything from introductory sessions to advanced dementia and end-of-life care training. Our bespoke training room allows us to support our Care Professionals in gaining the necessary skills to deliver the best possible care to your loved ones.
Our team members appreciate the thorough and ongoing nature of the training. Angie, our new recruit, shared her experience, saying: “I have enjoyed doing the training with Debbie; she made me feel very welcome and was lovely. Debbie made me feel very comfortable when doing the training and also helped me with my e-learning. I felt the training was thorough and interesting, which has given me the confidence to meet my first client.”
Lisa-Marie, a long-standing Care Professional commented: “Debbie is extremely thorough and professional. She always ensures that we have opportunities to learn more to progress further within our role.”
Rache, who has been with Home Instead for some time, reflected on her training experience: “The training was very engaging and covered all platforms. Once completed, you feel confident that you’ll be prepared for almost everything that comes your way. Debbie and her team are fantastic, always willing to help and ensure you’re kept up to date with any changes.”
As we mark Falls Prevention Week, it’s important to raise awareness about the risks of falls and how they can be prevented. With the right lifestyle changes, home safety measures and support, falls do not have to be a part of ageing.
At Home Instead Epping Forest, we’re dedicated to helping older adults stay safe and healthy in the comfort of their own homes. If you’d like to know more about the services we provide at Home Instead Epping Forest visit us here and don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01992 666 777. We’d be delighted to share the ways we can support you and your loved ones.