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7 Responses to “Fall Prevention 101”
  1. John Mullen Says:

    I am glad to find this information on the web. As a home health therapist in Texas my company is making it a point to carefully go over the actual home, identify problems and recommend solutions including ordering equipment as needed. Did you know that over 50% of the falls in the home are in the bathroom. I cringe when I see my elderly patients demonstrate how well they walk with their walker and then they leave it at the door of the bathroom because it is too difficult to get it thru the door and they grab onto the counter or the wall to steady themselves as they go to the toilet or tub. A wider doorway, slightly narrower walker or special swing clear hinges can allow a walker to pass thru the door. If not that, then a railing on the wall to allow them to safely walk thru the bathroom. And then there is the tub/shower, nonslip mats are ok, but difficult for an elderly patient to clean under. Non-skid tape attached to the tub surface is easier to clean. A proper choice between a tub transfer bench or a shower chair depends on the mobility of the patient. And other items such as grab bars and handheld showers need to be addressed. Sounds like a lot, and that is just the bathroom.
    And usually very little of this gets addressed properly by home health professionals.
    The problem is that health professionals are actually getting more training in how to fill out the Medicare paperwork and compliance with Medicare standards than actually being trained in how to properly address the home environment and the patient's needs in the environment.
    Something to think about.

  2. Lori Deschene Says:

    Thank you for adding some wonderful information. You've presented a thought provoking point about health professionals, and I think this emphasizes the need for vigilance by family members. What makes the possibility of serious injury by falling so catastrophic is how easily it can be prevented by taking the proper precautions. Please keep offering your thoughts and advice. They're greatly appreciated!

  3. RitaPHarvey Says:

    Last year my mom tripped over the radio cord and couldn’t reach the phone. She was there for over an hour before I found her. I got her a cellphone and now she wears it on her belt so she can call for help if she needs it. Good advice for all seniors.

  4. Gloria Foti Says:

    Wondering if I can get some advice about selecting a medical alert system for my 88 year old mom. She only speaks spanish lives in Buffalo NY .

  5. Lara Belonogoff Says:

    There are quite a few companies that offer medical alert bracelets and other devices. A nationwide service we list in our Gems section is the nonprofit MedicAlert.

  6. Steve Winter Says:

    What about if someone does fall or need emergency assistance? The Guardian 911 can really save lives because the pendant becomes a speakerphone with a direct connection to 911. This is not a fee based service, but rather a safety product that only needs to be purchased once. When the button is pushed the unit dials 911.

    Regards,

    Steve

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