How you can reduce the risk of falling
Learn about what you can do to reduce the risk of a fall in your own home and what Home Instead can do to help.
Take care in the colder months
With the wet and icy weather during the winter months, the risk of falling increases so it’s a good time to consider how you can reduce your risk, and take care when you’re out and about.
A third of people over 65, and half of people over 80, fall at least once a year. Falls are the most common cause of death from injury in the over 65s and cost the NHS over £2bn a year and over 4 million bed days. Many of these falls may not result in serious injury however they can result in older people suffering from reduced confidence and independence.
A fall can be a huge set-back for an elderly person and can put you at risk of serious injury. This is why at Home Instead Wetherby, North Leeds & Horsforth we know how important it is for our clients that they stay independent and well, in the comfort of their own home. We work closely with our clients and their families to create safe, supportive environments that can improve quality of life and reduce any risks. By focusing on prevention, we can work together to help avoid falls, hospital admissions, and even feelings of loneliness.
How to make your home a safe environment
Many people think falls are unpredictable and out of our control. However, when it comes to older adults there’s a number of things that can be done to lower the risk of a fall from happening. At Home Instead we ensure your home is safe as this is a crucial first step to reducing your risk of a fall. You can make sure to remove anything that could be a trip hazard, for example loose rugs and any extra clutter. You can install rails in the bathroom and outside the house as well as a grabber so you don’t have to bend over the pick things up. Little amendments like this can be the difference of someone keeping their independence for as long as possible and losing the ability to be independent at all.
What can you do to reduce the risk of a fall
Exercise and activities are one of the best ways to prevent a fall. They are very important to consider as regular exercise can help with balance, coordination and health. There are various classes held aimed at helping older adults maintain their wellbeing through exercise so make sure to check what’s near you. At Home Instead Wetherby, North Leeds & Horsforth we offer weekly chairobics classes which have been designed to help older adults maintain their strength and balance. These are held in Wetherby, Boston Spa and Horsforth on various days so please call us for more information.
Getting help in your home
If you are feeling unsteady or more anxious getting yourself up it might be time to look into your different care options. It is good to have a plan of action in place if you are worried about falling and putting homecare in place can be the first step to making sure you prevent this from happening. Home care can be a great way to get some added support in your own home. It is flexible so can work around your lifestyle and can also be adapted with any changes being increased or decreased where needed. Having care can mean you don’t have to do some of the daily tasks that become more challenging as you age.
These are some tasks we can help with:
- Changing your bedding
- Doing your washing
- Light housekeeping
- Organising your wardrobe and cupboards
- Helping with shopping
- Meal preparation
The importance of companionship
We understand how lonely and isolating it can feel after experiencing a fall, especially in your own home. Things you used to do easily may become more overwhelming and frightening. Our care professional’s can bring the trust and support you need to rebuild your confidence. Having the peace of mind that someone is coming to see you and can help with whatever you need is invaluable. Home Instead offer a FREE care consultation so we can come and assess your situation and answer any further questions you have.
To get in touch with us about how we can help reduce your risk of a fall please call us on 01937 220510 or visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/wetherby-north-leeds.