Fall Prevention Program Benefits for Seniors in Grand Junction, CO

According to the CDC, each year, there are around 3 million emergency department visits due to falls by older people. The majority of them break their hips, too, which can be a huge ordeal to heal from.

Now, you might be concerned about the older adult in your life, but it's not possible to be with them 24/7. However, there are certain things you can do to promote senior safety. For example, your elderly loved one can utilize a fall prevention program.

Are you interested in how this program can benefit seniors in Grand Junction, CO? Then keep reading. We'll show you how it can drastically improve your loved one's life.

Stronger Balance and Core Strength

A fall prevention program starts with movements that rebuild the 3 Ss:

• Strength
• Stability
• Stance

There are many wellness activities that support these three things, including:

• Sit-to-stands from a sturdy chair
• Heel-toe walking along a counter
• Gentle ankle circles
• Light resistance for your hips and thighs

As your loved one strengthens their legs and core, they'll see tremendous balance improvement. They'll be able to step off a curb, turn quickly in the kitchen, or reach for a top shelf while their body effortlessly steadies itself. Each step will feel planted and predictable.

Fewer Slips, Trips, and Fractures

Rarely do falls come from one cause, but it can be challenging for a senior to identify risks on their own.

Fall prevention programs teach them to spot and reduce small risks that pile up, such as:

• Throw rugs
• Poor lighting
• Cluttered pathways
• Pets underfoot
• Rushing when tired

From there, the program can teach them to practice safer movement patterns, including:

• Turning the whole body instead of twisting
• Pausing before pivoting
• Using handholds when changing levels

All these habits will add up, and the math will change drastically.

More Confidence and Independence

Many older adults already have a fear of falling since there are dire consequences. But after they fall, that fear can grow exponentially. As a result, it can shrink their life, causing them to withdraw and become depressed.

A good fall prevention program will pair gradual physical gains with small "wins" out in the world. Actions such as the following will be celebrated:

• Safely walking to the mailbox
• Carrying a light bag from the car
• Navigating a curb with a friend nearby

Each time they're successful, your beloved senior will chip away at worry and rebuild trust in their own body. And as confidence returns, so will independence!

A Safer Home They Can Move Through Easily

Preventing falls doesn't just involve improving your physical health; having a safe environment is vital too.

Earlier, we mentioned reducing small risks, but let's go into more detail. More specifically, you can help your loved one install:

• Brighter bulbs and night lights on the route from the bedroom to the bathroom
• Non-slip mats and grab bars in the shower
• A raised toilet seat
• Sturdy railings on both sides of the stairs and high-contrast tape at the edges

If possible, they should also replace their chairs with stable seating with arms for easier standing. And their bed height should also match their knees.

Medications, Hydration, and Health Check-Ins

Although you may have to take medications for senior health, there are unfortunately many that can increase your fall risk due to side effects like dizziness, dehydration, lower blood pressure, or blood sugar dips. A fall prevention plan encourages your loved one to:

• Review prescriptions and timing
• Simplify regimens where possible
• Watch for side effects like light-headedness or sleepiness

This will allow them to build simple routines that will keep their energy steady. This can include:

• Drinking water throughout the day
• Rising slowly from bed or chairs
• Eating regular protein-rich snacks

Sharper Senses and Smarter Gear

When older adults can see edges clearly, feel the floor under their feet, and use the right support, this can all turn a shaky moment into a stable one. So this program will help with mobility support by reminding your beloved senior to:

• Schedule regular eye checks
• Keep their glasses clean
• Use task lighting for kitchen chopping or crafts

They'll also teach seniors to practice good foot care. For example, they'll be advised to trim nails, manage calluses, and choose footwear with firm heel cups, non-slip soles, and a secure closure. Your loved one will know not to wear household slides and floppy sliders, as they will increase their fall risk.

If they need canes or walkers to feel safer, then the program will educate them on how to get these mobility aids sized correctly. This will prevent tripping and shoulder strain.

Safer Errands and Social Outings

Staying active is good for the body and mood if it's done safely. Your loved one will learn situational smarts, such as:

• Scanning sidewalks for uneven spots
• Choosing handrail sides on steps
• Timing errands when they feel freshest

The result is more connectionswith their friends, activities, and the places they love.

Peace of Mind for Everyone

One of the biggest benefits of a fall prevention program is that everyone gets peace of mind. When you and your beloved senior agree on a simple safety plan, then everyone can breathe easier.

Share the checklist, which can consist of things like:

• Lights on by dusk
• Clear paths
• Phone within reach
• Quick text when they leave and arrive

If it fits your loved one's lifestyle, then consider a medical alert device. Other things, like a card in their wallet with medications, allergies, and emergency contacts, can help too.

A Fall Prevention Program Is Highly Beneficial

A fall prevention program won't guarantee that your beloved senior won't fall. However, it can teach everyone smart methods to significantly reduce fall risks.

In turn, this allows your loved one to live more confidently, and you'll have more peace of mind too. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Want to schedule a tour of a senior living community in Grand Junction, CO? Then contact us today. The Lodge at Grand Junction has several award-winning and industry-leading programs that focus on helping our residents stay vibrant, purposeful, and comfortable.