The start of colder weather makes it a more dangerous time for seniors to get around. In order to help you or a loved one be safe this winter, we have put together some tips and facts on fall prevention. Check them out here at Freedom healthcare.

While it is common for people of all ages to fall, seniors are the ones at the most risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that 1 in 4 seniors fall at least once a year. If you are over the age of 75, you are 5 times more likely to need long-term care for at least a year as a result of the fall.

That being said, you want to make sure you are following important homecare steps to ensure it does not happen to you or a loved one. Make sure that all loose cords in a home are tucked away so no incident takes place with a cord on the floor. Keeping your floors clean and organized will assure no injuries can take place from losing items.

There are also activities you can engage in to exercise and practice prevention of falls. Yoga is a great way to improve your body’s stability and walking skills. Start small, but after your body gets used to it, you are constantly improving your health!

Exercising regularly is important for ones’ health. Try doing exercises that will increase leg strength and improve balance. Do not perform these exercises if you do not feel stable enough to try on your own, wait for a loved one, therapist, or caregiver to help.

Keeping your home lit at night is also a way to prevent a fall in the middle of the night from happening. Keep nightlights plugged in the hall, so if you have to walk to the kitchen or restroom in the middle of the night you have light to see.

If a fall is to occur, if you have a medical alert system, press for help. If you do not have a system or are too injured to move, do not get up because you will risk further damage and injury to your body. Call for help or crawl to a sturdy object to get up and call 911.

As a home care agency, we know how important the safety of your loved ones is. At Freedom Home Care Highland Park, our staff is ready to assist your loved one with in-home care today. Visit us at freedom medical staffing to learn more about the home health agency services offered.