Have you ever got a call saying your elderly parent had fallen? It’s a situation no one wants to face, yet it’s one of the most common fears when you have ageing parents. Falls are the leading cause of injuries among seniors, and the older they get, the higher the risk. But here’s the good news – falls can often be prevented. So, what practical steps can you take to keep your parent safe?
1. A Call Button for Falls
When someone elderly falls, immediate help is crucial. The sooner they get assistance, the less severe the consequences usually are. That’s why providing your parent with a wearable call button in case of falls is one of the smartest decisions you can make.
These buttons are usually worn around the neck or wrist. They’re small, discreet, and simple to operate, even when someone is panicking or disoriented. Your parent can instantly connect to emergency services or a family member with just a quick press. They offer reassurance that help is always within reach, especially useful if your parent lives alone.
2. Keep Their Home Clear of Hazards
Sometimes, fall prevention is as straightforward as making sure the house isn’t full of hidden traps. Many falls at home happen because of clutter, poorly arranged furniture, or simple household hazards.
You can quickly reduce the chance of falls by making sure their environment is safe:
- Clear paths – Remove loose rugs or mats, as they can slip and bunch up. Ensure all walkways are clear and spacious.
- Secure loose wires – Electrical cords or phone lines lying across the floor are dangerous. Tape them securely along walls or reroute them away from walking areas.
- Proper lighting – Improve visibility with bright, easy-to-use lamps or automatic nightlights, particularly in hallways, stairs, and bathrooms.
- Sturdy furniture – Check that all furniture is stable, with nothing wobbling or shifting when leaned on.
- Bathroom safety – Install grab bars near the shower, bathtub, and toilet to provide essential support.
3. Check Their Vision Regularly
Vision problems often creep up gradually, and your parent might not even realise their eyesight is declining. Poor vision significantly increases fall risks, especially in low-light conditions or when navigating stairs.
To protect them, encourage regular visits to the optometrist for eye exams. It’s recommended that seniors get their eyes checked at least once a year, even if they don’t notice major changes. Corrective glasses or contacts, treatment for cataracts, and managing conditions like glaucoma can make a massive difference to safety.
4. Ensure Proper Footwear
Shoes can seem like a minor thing, but they’re critical for balance and stability. Slippers, worn-out shoes, or socks on slippery floors dramatically increase fall risks. Choosing the right footwear makes all the difference.
Good footwear for elderly parents should:
- Have non-slip soles to provide a firm grip on all surfaces.
- Fit comfortably without being too loose or too tight.
- Provide adequate support for arches and ankles.
Even indoors, shoes or slippers with proper tread are essential. Bare feet or socks alone aren’t enough, especially on hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors.
5. Encourage Exercise and Strength Training
Keeping active is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of falls. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, improves balance, and boosts overall coordination.
Encourage your parent to engage in gentle, senior-friendly exercises such as tai chi, yoga, or simple balance exercises. Even daily walks around the neighbourhood or garden can significantly improve their physical condition and stability.
If they’re unsure or hesitant, consider enrolling them in classes specifically designed for seniors. It’s not only great for their health but can also be a fantastic way to meet new people and socialise.
6. Review Medication Regularly
Did you know that medications can sometimes cause dizziness or balance issues? Certain medications or combinations can affect coordination, strength, and clarity of mind.
If your parent is taking multiple medications, regular reviews by a healthcare provider are essential. Make sure their doctor checks for interactions, proper dosages, and side effects that might increase fall risks. Sometimes, minor adjustments or changes to medication timing can drastically improve their overall stability and safety.
It’s also helpful to keep a clear, updated list of all their medications in case of an emergency or hospital visit.
7. Consider Professional Home Assessments
Getting a professional to do a home assessment might seem like a big step, but it can uncover risks you might not notice yourself. Occupational therapists specialise in evaluating home environments and can give detailed, personalised advice.
A professional can identify hazards such as slippery tiles, uneven flooring, unsuitable furniture heights, or risky steps that might be easily overlooked. They can suggest modifications, like adding handrails, installing ramps, or rearranging rooms, to make your parent’s home as safe and fall-proof as possible.
It’s worth investing in a home safety check, particularly if your parent has recently had mobility or health changes.
Make Your Parent’s Safety a Priority
Helping your elderly parent avoid falls involves simple steps that can dramatically improve their quality of life and reduce worry for both of you. Combining these strategies, like a call button for emergencies, a safer home environment, regular vision checks, suitable footwear, consistent exercise, medication reviews, and professional advice, gives you peace of mind that you’re doing everything possible to protect them.
