Keep your loved ones safe with these fall prevention tips

Today, more than 34 million Americans act as caregivers to older family members and loved ones – and know all too well how easily a single fall can change a life.

Sue Harvey, RN and NICHE Coordinator at Advocate South Suburban Hospital in Hazel Crest, Ill. offers these tips for keeping seniors safe from harm.

• Do away with clutter. An unexpected item on the floor or near a walkway is all it takes to trip someone up. Stacks of paper like mail, magazines and newspapers can be especially slippery hazards. Help your loved one tidy up at every visit, if you can.
• Talk about medications. Some common medications can cause side effects like dizziness or sleepiness. Make sure you know what medications they are taking, why and how they may affect their daily lives. If medication side effects are putting them in danger of falling, work with them and their doctor to find alternative medications, where possible.
• Get on your feet! Getting in shape can help improve flexibility and coordination, which can go a long way toward preventing injuries and falls. If your loved one needs motivation, buddy up and create a daily stretching or walking plan with them.
• Stick with sensible shoes. Whether at home or out, wearing shoes with rubber soles can help prevent unnecessary slipping. If your loved one doesn't want to wear shoes in the house, slippers with no-slip bottoms can work, too.
• Remember that you are part of a team. It’s important to respect your loved ones’ independence. Building trust and a respect-based relationship can help them feel safe talking to you about any problems they may be having, which will help keep them safer and healthier in the long run.