For seniors, safety is one of the biggest issues they can face. Seniors are more vulnerable to accidents and falls as they age. Many families don’t realize that once seniors experience one fall, they’re twice as likely to have another fall. Add in other mobility issues, chronic health issues, and cognitive challenges like dementia, and seniors experience even bigger safety risks. 24-hour home care can help families put safety first for aging adults.
Senior Safety Risks
Safety is a huge issue for seniors no matter what else is going on. But health issues and previous injuries can make safety risks an even bigger problem for aging adults. Conditions that cause joint pain and stiffness or that affect balance can increase issues like fall risks. Cognitive changes, like dementia, can change how aware seniors are of the safety hazards around them.
Supervision and Assistance
Home care providers can be a huge help for aging adults in terms of safety for several reasons. They know what issues to watch for, but they also are already there helping seniors with other tasks. Elder care providers who are there around the clock can offer even more support and supervision if seniors have difficulty overnight.
Personalized Mobility Help
Every senior is dealing with different challenges and issues that affect safety. 24-hour home care providers work with families and healthcare providers to talk about specific needs and work out a plan that is tailored to meet those needs. Professional caregivers can help seniors remember to use mobility aids, assist with repositioning, and help keep pathways clear in the house.
Home Modifications and Vigilance
Home modifications are an easy way to boost safety for seniors. The problem is that often family caregivers and seniors aren’t aware of the different changes they can make to improve safety. 24-hour home care providers have experience with these modifications and they can also help to stay on top of future issues as they arise.
Preventing Falls
Fall prevention is a constant issue when it comes to keeping seniors as safe as possible. Falls can happen during routine daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or doing the laundry. Home care providers are there to help if seniors need it, but also to watch out for possible safety concerns that could lead to a fall.
Emergency Preparedness
Accidents can still happen, no matter how prepared a family is. When something does happen, it’s immensely helpful for seniors to have 24-hour home care providers there with them. These professional caregivers have experience managing emergencies and can assist with basic first aid and stay calm in an emergency situation.
Improving Overall Safety and Independence
When seniors are worried about falling or injuring themselves, they’re less likely to continue doing the things they’re used to doing. 24-hour home care allows seniors to relax because they know they have help there with them. That helps to reduce their fear and allows them to rebuild their confidence and independence.
With the right help, seniors don’t have to fear that they’re going to experience a fall or injury that affects their future health. 24-hour home care can reduce the likelihood that seniors age in place in unsafe home situations.
Reference
https://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/fall-prevention-strategies
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-hour home care in Minneapolis, MN and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.