Craig B, Author at MeasurAbilities, LLC

Regular Post

Written by Craig B

12 January 2023

Assessing Fall Risks

Here are some simple questions you can ask yourself to determine if you or a loved one may be at risk for falling in your home:

Do you exercise regularly?

Maintaining a regular exercise program to increase strength, balance and coordination and greatly reduce the risk of falls. Recommended exercise for fall reduction are evidence-based exercises/programs such as Tai Chi.

Sure. Here are some good exercises for seniors:

Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints. It is a great way to improve cardiovascular health, strength, and balance.
Strength training: Strength training helps to build muscle and bone mass. This can help to prevent falls and improve mobility.
Balance exercises: Balance exercises help to improve coordination and reduce the risk of falls.
Yoga: Yoga is a low-impact exercise that combines stretching and strength training. It can help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.
Tai chi: Tai chi is a gentle exercise that combines slow, flowing movements with meditation. It can help to improve balance, flexibility, and reduce stress.
Pilates: Pilates is a low-impact exercise that focuses on core strength and flexibility. It can help to improve posture, strength, and balance.
Dancing: Dancing is a fun way to get exercise. It can help to improve cardiovascular health, coordination, and balance.
Water aerobics: Water aerobics is a low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints. It can help to improve cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility.

These are just a few examples of good exercises for seniors. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any health conditions.

When choosing exercises, it is important to consider your fitness level and goals. You should start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get stronger. It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks when needed.

Here are some additional tips for exercising as a senior:

Find an exercise buddy. Exercising with a friend or family member can help you stay motivated and accountable.
Set realistic goals. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with small goals and gradually increase them over time.
Find an exercise that you enjoy. If you don’t enjoy an exercise, you are less likely to stick with it.
Dress appropriately. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that will support your feet.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
Warm up before you start exercising and cool down afterwards. This will help to prevent injuries.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively exercise as a senior and reap the many benefits of physical activity.

Are you taking multiple medications?

Taking multiple medications can increase fall risk, due to side effects and possible drug interactions. Regularly reviewing medications with a healthcare provide can reduce the risk of medication related fall risk. It’s important to remember to dispose of unused or expired medications.

Keeping Track of Medications

Keeping track of medications is important for several reasons. It can help you to:

Take your medications correctly and on time.
Avoid taking too much or too little medication.
Be aware of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
Report any changes in your health to your doctor.

There are a few different ways to keep track of medications. Here are a few popular methods:

Medication list: This is a simple list of all the medications you take, including the name, dosage, and frequency. You can keep this list on paper or in a digital format.
Pill organizer: This is a container with compartments for each day of the week. You can use this to organize your pills and make sure you take them correctly.
Medication reminder app: There are a number of apps available that can help you to keep track of your medications. These apps can send you reminders to take your medications and can also track your intake.
Wristband or necklace: There are also wristbands and necklaces available that can help you to keep track of your medications. These devices can be programmed with information about your medications and can alert you if you forget to take them.

The best way to keep track of medications will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. If you are taking a lot of medications, or if you have difficulty remembering to take them, you may want to consider using a medication reminder app or a pill organizer. If you are concerned about your ability to keep track of your medications, you should talk to your doctor.

Here are some additional tips for keeping track of medications:

Keep your medication list in a safe place where you can easily find it.
Review your medication list regularly to make sure it is up to date.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any changes in your medications.
If you are traveling, pack your medications in your carry-on luggage.
Be sure to dispose of expired or unused medications properly.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you are taking your medications correctly and safely.

Have you modified your home environment?

Modifying the home environment to reduce hazards such as slippery floors, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, removal of cords and other household obstacles can reduce the risk of unnecessary falls in the home. The bathroom is the number one place for falls in the home. Addressing balance issues in the shower and commode areas through the addition of safety grab bars, shower chairs, transfer benches and toilet risers can reduce the risk of falls in the bathroom.

Modifying your home for seniors can help them to stay safe and independent in their own home. There are many different modifications that can be made, depending on the individual’s needs and abilities.

Here are some common home modifications for seniors:

Widen doorways: This will make it easier for seniors to navigate through the home, especially if they use a wheelchair or walker.
Install grab bars: Grab bars can be installed in the bathroom, kitchen, and other areas where seniors may need assistance. They can help to prevent falls.
Add ramps: Ramps can be installed to make it easier for seniors to enter and exit the home, especially if there are stairs.
Lower countertops and appliances: This will make it easier for seniors to reach things.
Install non-slip flooring: This will help to prevent falls, especially in wet areas.
Install motion-sensor lights: This will make it easier for seniors to navigate the home at night.
Install a medical alert system: This system can be used to call for help in an emergency.
Install a security system: This system can help to deter burglaries and other crimes.

These are just a few examples of home modifications that can be made for seniors. The best way to determine which modifications are right for you is to talk to a doctor or occupational therapist. They can help you assess your individual needs and recommend specific modifications.

Here are some additional tips for modifying your home for seniors:

Make sure the modifications are easy to use and maintain.
Consider the senior’s mobility and vision when making modifications.
Make sure the modifications are aesthetically pleasing.
Get help from a professional if you need it.

By following these tips, you can make your home a safe and comfortable place for seniors to live.

Have you had a home safety assessment to determine if you are at risk of falls in your home?

Studies have shown that addressing multiple fall risk factors from daily activities and exercise, medication, footwear, eye exams and home environment, have the ability to reduce fall risk as statin medication does for cardiovascular disease.

A home safety assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of potential hazards in and around your home. It is conducted by a qualified professional, such as an occupational therapist, social worker, or home safety inspector. The purpose of a home safety assessment is to identify and eliminate potential hazards that could cause injury or illness.

The home safety assessment will typically cover the following areas:

Fall hazards: This includes uneven surfaces, slippery floors, and missing handrails.
Fire hazards: This includes combustible materials, faulty electrical wiring, and blocked exits.
Slip and trip hazards: This includes clutter, loose rugs, and uneven surfaces.
Security hazards: This includes weak locks, unsecured windows, and poor lighting.
Accessibility hazards: This includes narrow doorways, steps, and lack of grab bars.
Other hazards: This could include anything else that could pose a safety risk, such as poisonous plants or pets.

The home safety assessor will make recommendations for how to correct any hazards that are found. These recommendations may include making repairs, installing safety devices, or changing your behavior.

A home safety assessment can be a valuable tool for improving the safety of your home. If you are concerned about the safety of your home, or if you are a senior or have a disability, you should consider having a home safety assessment performed.

Here are some benefits of having a home safety assessment:

It can help to identify and eliminate potential hazards in your home.
It can help to make your home safer for you and your family.
It can help to reduce the risk of injury or illness.
It can help you to feel more confident and secure in your home.
It can help you to save money on home repairs and medical bills.

If you are interested in having a home safety assessment performed, you can contact your local occupational therapist, social worker, or home safety inspector. They can help you to find a qualified professional who can conduct the assessment.

Having a home safety assessment performed to identify fall risk and provide safety recommendations followed up by installation, can greatly reduce your risk of falls in your home environment. You are unique and your needs are too!

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Regular Post

Written by Craig B

23 October 2022

Use A Cane The Right Way!

Learn how to properly use a cane to stand up and walk, sit down onto a chair and go up and down stairs. Read on to learn more.

To Stand Up And Walk

Quad cane: Push up from the armrest of the chair or from the bed to a standing position. Grasp the cane and make sure you are steady.
Standard cane: Hold the handle of the cane in one hand as you push up from the armrest. Once standing, pause to be sure you are steady.
Move the cane forward a short distance. Make sure you keep the cane a few inches out to the side.
Step forward with your injured or weaker leg first, putting weight onto the cane. Then take a step with your stronger leg.
Look up to see where you are going, not always down at the floor.

To Sit Down Onto A Chair

Back up until you feel the chair against your legs. Instructions based on type of cane are:

Quad cane: Place both hands on the chair arm. Ease down into the chair.
Standard cane: Hold the cane in one hand and the armrest with other hand. Ease down into the chair.

To Go Up The Stairs

Push down on the cane. Step up with your stronger or uninjured leg. Then step up to the same step with your weaker or injured leg. Bring the cane up.

To Go Down The Stairs

Place your cane down one step. Step down with your weaker or injured leg. Then step down with your uninjured leg.

If you have a railing, hold onto it with your other hand. If you use a large quad cane, you may need to turn it sideways so it fits on the step.

To Prevent Falls

Be sure your cane is in good condition. Your cane should have grooved rubber tips covering the bottom of each leg(s) of the cane.
Avoid throw rugs and waxed floors.
Be careful when walking on wet or slippery surfaces.
Wear low-heeled, tie shoes for better support.

Follow your physician’s orders regarding any limits on your activities.

Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15541-how-to-use-a-cane

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23 September 2022

Preventing Falls At Home

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Regular Post

Written by Craig B

1 July 2022

Golf Club For Seniors

Modern advancements in golf equipment have enabled elders to continue playing their favorite sport for longer. Whether you are a novice or an experienced player, the game’s fascination never wanes. In this post, we will discuss the many sorts of clubs. Although we won’t be promoting specific brands, the information will be extremely helpful for your upcoming golf purchases.

Senior Is Not the Same as Senior, or Is It?

You do not necessarily need senior flex shafts in your clubs just because you are advancing in age. However, if your clubhead speed has decreased over the years, your club selection may be the key to achieving lesser scores. The term “set make-up” refers to putting the clubs in your bag that give you the greatest chance of playing well. In addition to senior golf, the late Arnold Palmer competed against juniors on the PGA Tour far into his seventies. Among his secrets was the fact that he altered his equipment. He added more flexible shafts to his clubs, upped the loft on his driver, added some fairway woods, hybrids, bigger cavity back irons, wedges he felt comfortable with, and rocked the modern putter for years. Consider each category of equipment for inspiration. In addition to being able to purchase new clubs and have them completely customized, there is now a thriving market for used golf clubs, especially online. You can save money without sacrificing quality golf clubs!

Driver

The USGA (United States Golf Association) has established criteria governing the flexibility of driver faces, so each high-quality driver produced after 2010 should have a comparable degree of face bending. These are the four things a senior should look for:

1. Loft. In golf, loft is your best buddy. You probably do not hit the ball as far as you formerly did. Yes, you may still be able to hit the ball 250 yards, but you can bet the average is far shorter. To gain more yards, you can increase the “carry” distance of your tee shots by increasing the loft of your club. Several manufacturers sell Drivers with a loft between 12 and 15 degrees; if you can set aside your ego, it is highly recommended that you investigate these options.

2. length and weight of the shaft Despite the fact that the average driver length on the PGA Tour is 44.5 inches, several drivers are 46 inches in length. You will be surprised at how much easier it is to hit the sweet spot and increase yardage by shaving an inch to an inch and a half off the grip end of a shorter driver. It won’t have much of an effect on the shaft flex, but you can always apply a bit of lead tape to the club’s head (one of Arnold Palmer’s techniques!).

3. Face Angle. In modern drivers, the face angle can be adjusted to prevent a tendency to hook or slice the ball. Some manufacturers sell drivers with offset heads for slicers in order to reduce slice and increase launch angle.

4. head volume Some elders are uneasy with the 400cc to 460cc head size of contemporary drivers. Although you will lose a little distance on all but the cleanest hits, seeing some old-school titanium clubheads in the 250cc to 350cc range may inspire confidence in your ability to square the club at impact. Especially if the shaft is shortened and the loft is at least 11 degrees. In addition, these clubs frequently cost less than $20!

Fairway Hybrids And Woods

Much of what may be said about fairway woods also applies to drives. Unless you can hit a 3-wood higher than a one-story home, you probably do not need this club unless you play in a climate with extremely firm fairways, where you may be able to gain yardage due to the roll. A 5 wood (hugely popular on all tours today) will likely serve you well. Look for one with 18 or 19 degrees of loft and a maximum shaft length of 42 inches for an average-sized individual. A 7 wood and/or a 9 wood (with lofts between 21 and 24 degrees) are also excellent clubs for the senior golfer to utilize, as they are effective from the rough as well as the fairway and tee box. The 5 wood can substitute for a 1-2 iron, 7 wood, 3-4 iron, and 9 wood 4-5 iron. If you are seeking for greater height, a club with a shallower face may help, however if you are using the club more off the tee and from the rough, a club with a deeper face may be more advantageous. Hybrids are designed to replace longer irons and are often hollow-headed clubs with a slimmer profile. For the majority of senior golfers, a 1, 2, or 3 iron is not a user-friendly club, but adding a 5 or 7/9 Wood combo and beginning with a pair of hybrids in the 4 or 5 Irons can make the game significantly easier. You may even get iron sets composed completely of hybrids. There are no “cheater clubs” present. Numerous elite players of all ages frequently have two or more in their bag.

The Use Of Irons And Wedges

Assuming you have added one or two woods or hybrids, your longest iron will likely be a 5 or 6 iron. The best irons are those that distribute their weight evenly throughout the perimeter of the club. Buying new or secondhand, the lie angle is one of the most crucial specifications to get properly (how the club is soled at impact with the ball.) With the assistance of a skilled club fitter, you may bend the necks of the majority of golf clubs by a couple of degrees to increase the accuracy of your iron shots. The lofts of modern golf clubs are stronger than those of clubs from the past. In 1995, a pitching wedge had approximately 48 degrees of loft; today, 44 or 45 degrees is the norm, and most sets include a gap wedge with approximately 50 degrees of loft before the sand wedge (usually with around 56 degrees of loft.) Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Hale Irwin, Lee Trevino and many others do not carry a 60-degree wedge (also known as a Lob Wedge), so although you may wish to carry one if your home course has a lot of hills and carries over sand traps around the greens, it is by no means required. A quality sand wedge must have “bounce” on the sole (the number of degrees the back of the leading edge sits lower than the front of the leading edge.) When playing in rainy conditions with dense sand in the bunkers, a sand wedge with a bounce angle of 12 to 15 degrees is appropriate. If you play on a course with firmer ground and fewer sand traps, a sand wedge with 9 to 12 degrees of bounce will serve you well.

Putters

There is a great deal of individual variety among putters. Regardless of whether you choose a standard blade or centershaft putter, a Ping-style heel-to-toe putter, or one of the huge and trendy MOI putters, there are two factors to consider. Most putters are excessively lengthy. You can shorten it and add weight with lead tape, but you should consider your putting stroke, consult a professional, and ensure that your eyes are comfortable over the ball before determining the proper length of putter. Regardless of the shape you select, you will find a head weight that feels appropriate. Have fun experimenting with various putters, and keep in mind that there are many excellent used putters available.

Shafts And Grips

Modern graphite shafts do not have the performance difficulties of graphite shafts from the 1980s, yet it is astounding to hear seasoned players continue to say ridiculous things like “Graphite turns the club into a hook machine” or “It has too much torque.” From a scientific standpoint, this is no longer the case with graphite shafts of decent quality made by major manufacturers. With its reduced weight, graphite should be utilized by senior golfers in their woods, hybrids, and most likely their irons. Most store-bought wedges feature “Wedgeflex” shafts, which are invariably stiff. Throughout his career, Jack Nicklaus utilized a sand wedge with a soft flex shaft. Even if you leave the steel in the wedges, reshafting them with a more flexible shaft might be of tremendous assistance. You are not required to use senior flex, but it is a truth that the majority of male amateur golfers in the United States utilize stiff flex clubs due to their ego, when a regular or even senior flex club would be more beneficial. Try out different shafts with the assistance of a qualified club fitter, and you may be surprised. Whatever grip you like can be customized to fit your hand. If you have arthritis in your hands, you can build up the grip. Many top senior golfers do this to minimize the grip taper on the lower half of the grip and to reduce the vibration of the club at impact.

Putting Everything together

Let’s use Tom as an example. Tom, a 65-year-old male golfer, with a driver swingspeed of 84 mph and a 6-iron swingspeed of 67 mph. His handicap is 12 points. He no longer strikes the ball as high or as far as he once did. However, he utilizes excellent course management and smashes the ball quite straight. He has a handicap of 12 and is capable of consistently shooting 81-83 on a 6,100-yard, par-72 golf course. Here is a potential set composition for him with senior flex shafts:

Driver: 300-460cc (based on personal preference) driver head with a loft of 12 to 14 degrees.

Wood: 5 Wood with loft between 18 and 19 degrees.

4 and 5 Hybrids will replace 4 and 5 Irons.

The 6,7,8,9, Pitching Wedge, and Gap Wedge irons have the same model and shaft.

Sand Wedge: 56 degrees with 12 degrees of bounce and a shaft with the same flex profile as the other clubs, whether steel or graphite.

Whatever choice he makes!

That’s only twelve clubs! The rules permit 14, and you may discover that you do not need them, but this setup allows you to add a second fairway wood, perhaps a 6-hybrid iron or 60-degree wedge!

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Regular Post

Written by Craig B

1 June 2022

Increasing Your Energy Levels

Read on to learn more about increasing your energy levels as you age.

1. Exercise Every Day

The amount of everyday activity you can fit in depends on your schedule. Determine how much additional time you have during the day to exercise. Any quantity of daily exercise will be good in the long run, regardless of the amount of spare time you have. Exercise can improve your appearance and keep you energized simultaneously.

2. Drink Water

Every individual must drink as much water as feasible every day in order to maintain physical and mental health. Give your skin a moisturized and healthier appearance by beginning the day with a big glass of water.

3. Walk

Walking is one of the best types of everyday exercise. Even if you are exhausted or drained of energy, try going on a short, calming walk. Extending one’s legs while breathing in fresh air can be incredibly revitalizing for the body and mind.

4. Consume Healthy Foods

Your appearance will alter and your body will deteriorate as you age. Combat these disorders by consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables every day. Limit your sugar consumption. Your everyday diet should emphasize the consumption of these nutrients:

Fiber
Protein
Calcium
Magnesium
Omega fatty acids
Potassium
Vitamin E
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12

5. Get Better Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for all individuals. How do you sleep better, however? One suggestion is to eliminate naps entirely. While afternoon naps may feel revitalizing, they actually prevent nocturnal sleep from being peaceful.

6. Take Vitamins

When high-quality supplements are consumed on a regular basis, the mind and body can operate at peak efficiency. These vitamins have numerous benefits for senior citizens. Consult your physician to determine which supplements will benefit you most.

7. Remain Optimistic

Attempt to maintain a pleasant attitude throughout this adventure. Constantly remind yourself of the potential mental and physical health benefits. Before long, your mind and body will feel entirely revitalized.

8. Strength Exercises

For individuals over the age of 50, lifting weights and engaging in resistance workouts might be an excellent approach to increase energy. Greater general strength can help our bodies be more efficient, which will eventually translate into greater energy levels.

9. Engage Your Mind

Performing crosswords, puzzles, and sudoku throughout the day will refresh your mind. Engaging in intellectually stimulating conversations or arguments is another excellent way to maintain mental acuity. Keeping your mind occupied throughout the day will maintain your energy levels.

10. Manage Stress

It is no secret that emotions caused by stress can waste a great deal of mental and physical energy. There are thankfully numerous strategies to manage stress. Try speaking with a trustworthy friend or family member about your problems. You could even join a support group. Also effective are relaxation therapies such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation.

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Home Safety Assessments And Evaluations 2026

Regular Post

Written by Craig B

27 April 2022

Home Safety Assessments And Evaluations

As we age, there is no doubt in our hearts we feel young. And although being young at heart is wonderful, this ethereal feeling is no match for the ever-changing state of our bodies and the status of our health.

The changes that take place with our health that can dramatically affect our ability to navigate our home environment safely. Although falls are not necessarily a part of aging, 40% of nursing home admissions are due to slip and fall accidents. These accidents can affect the course of our ability to be independent and live quality lives at home.

Of course, walking around in bubble wrap to keep from falling in your home is not a doable solution – it’s hot, unsightly, and frankly not a fashion stopper. Many individuals elect to do nothing, feeling invincible. This denial can lead to unexpected accidents, which then brings you into crisis mode. However, seeking preventative solutions in advance of a potential crisis, is the best way to stay safe while aging at home. Intervention IS prevention.

At the top of your list should be a home safety assessment. The American and British Geriatric Societies report, “Multi-factorial risk assessment and intervention strategies are effective in decreasing the rates of falls and have a similar risk reduction to that of other prevention measures such as statins for cardiovascular disease”.

LEARN ABOUT OUR STYLISH HOME SAFETY SOLUTIONS

What can I expect from a home safety assessment? Who will evaluate my environment? What happens following the assessment?

Our physical therapist provides a home safety assessment. During the assessment, not only will you be evaluated navigating your home environment, but the environment itself will be evaluated for safety hazards in a variety of rooms – including the bathroom, where falls occur most frequently in the home.

The therapist will make clinical recommendations based on your individual diagnosis or physical limitations to ensure optimal fall prevention safety outcomes, customized for you in your space.

We complete the process by providing and clinically installing all needed items. We provide a warranty for all of our products and services, and we are licensed, bonded and insured.

You may not have concerns about falling now, but denying that it’s a possibility puts you at greater risk. Once injuries occur from falls, often there is no turning back. Protect your health, independence and future, scheduled your clinically guided home safety assessment.

SCHEDULE A HOME SAFETY ASSESSMENT

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Uncategorized

Regular Post

Written by Craig B

28 March 2022

Conversations to Have with Your Aging Parents: Creating a Falls-Free World

We often worry about our aging parents’ safety, well-being and even fiscal health, and many adult children find themselves in the sometimes-awkward position of having to bring up these sensitive conversations with aging parents.

Among these concerns, fall prevention may be the hardest to bring up – especially if your parents have chosen to retain their independence by aging in place. Many older adults experience a certain amount of denial about their physical capabilities, which makes it hard to ring up sensitive issues like fall prevention.

Keep reading for some simple ways to broach the conversation with your parents.

Find Support in Family and Friends

This is a tough conversation but a necessary one. Ask your loved one if they are concerned about falling or have taken any spills. Many older adults recognize that falling is a risk but believe it won’t happen to them – even if they’ve already fallen in the past.

If they’re concerned about dizziness, environmental concerns, medications, foot issues or balance, suggest that they talk to a health care provider who can assess their risk and recommend services that can help.

Discuss Current Health Conditions

Are your loved ones experiencing challenges managing their own health? Having problems or concerns about medication management? Forgetting to take their medications?

Things that were once easily doable tasks are now more challenging for them. Make them aware that Medicare offers preventative benefits which they can take advantage of – such as the Annual Wellness visit. Encourage them to speak openly with their health care provider about all their concerns.

Ask About Their Last Vision Exam

If your elderly family member or friend wears glasses, make sure their prescription is current. Many are not aware that using lenses where the tinting changes can cause problems when going from bright sunlight into darkened areas.

Changing glasses upon entry or exit is often helpful to allow time for their lenses to adjust. Those dealing with low vision issues should consult their eye doctor.

Observe Behaviors of Holding onto Walls, Chairs, Tables, etc. for Ambulating Their Environment

These are all signs there might be balance or other related issues which a trained physical therapist could diagnose. Through physical therapy, increased balance, strength and conditioning and reduce fall risk.

Additionally, the physical therapist may recommend walking and/or assistive devices to help keep them safe when transferring sit to stand or being mobile in their home and outside environments.

Have a Conversation About Medications

If your older loved one is having a hard time keeping track of medicines or is experiencing side effects, encourage them to have a conversation with their doctor or pharmacist. Suggest that they have their medications reviewed each time they get a new prescription.

My mom had an elaborate spreadsheet to keep track of her medications and schedules. Adding a timed medication dispenser that my sister refilled each month promoted her peace of mind and allowed us to ensure her adherence to the prescribed regime.

Also, beware of non-prescription medications that contain sleep aids—including painkillers with “PM” in their names. These can lead to balance issues and dizziness. If your older loved one is having sleeping problems, encourage them to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about safer alternatives.

Do A Walk-Through Safety Assessment of Their Home

There are many simple and inexpensive ways to make a home safer. For professional assistance, consult MEASURAbilities Home Safety. Our physical therapist provides free home safety assessments and customized, clinically guided recommendations and installations.

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Ensuring home safety involves taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and protect your household from various risks. Here are some comprehensive tips to enhance home safety: General Home Safety Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Place smoke detectors on every floor, in each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and [...]

Home Safety Assessments And Evaluations 2025

Home Safety Assessments & Evaluations: What You Need to Know A home safety assessment is a thorough inspection of your home to identify hazards and improve safety for residents. These assessments are especially useful for families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and new homeowners. {{ vc_btn:title=LEARN+ABOUT+OUR+STYLISH+HOME+SAFETY+SOLUTIONS&style=flat&shape=square&align=left&link=url%3Ahttps%253A%252F%252Foffers.measurabilities.com%252Fhow-to-fall-proof-your-bathroom-with-style%7C%7C%7C&css=.vc_custom_1586196073022%7Bmargin-top%3A+-10px+%21important%3B%7D }} What can I expect from a home safety assessment? [...]

Aging Parents, Home Safety Solutions, Senior Falls

Are Office Safety Assessments a Thing for Senior Workers?

Regular Post

Written by Craig B

3 January 2022

When Denial Gets in the Way of Safety

As we age, changes take place with our health that can dramatically affect our ability to navigate our home environment safely. Although falls are not necessarily a part of aging, 40% of nursing home admissions are due to slip and fall accidents. These accidents can affect the course of our ability to be independent and live quality lives at home.

Of course walking around in bubble wrap to keep from falling in your home is not a doable solution – it’s hot, unsightly, and frankly not a fashion stopper. Many individuals elect to do nothing, feeling invincible. This denial can lead to unexpected accidents, which then brings you into crisis mode. However, seeking preventative solutions in advance of a potential crisis, is the most optimal way to stay safe while aging at home. Intervention IS prevention.

Top of your list should be a Home Safety Assessment. The American and British Geriatric Societies report, “ Multifactorial risk assessment and intervention strategies are effective in decreasing the rates of falls and have a similar risk reduction to that of other prevention measures such as statins for cardiovascular disease”.

What can I expect from a home safety assessment? Who will evaluate my environment? What happens following the assessment?

Our physical therapist provides a home safety assessment, during which time, not only will you be evaluated navigating your home environment, but the environment itself will be evaluated for safety hazards in a variety of rooms, including the bathroom, where falls occur most frequently in the home.

The therapist will make clinical recommendations based on your individual diagnosis or physical limitations to ensure optimal fall prevention safety outcomes, customized for you in your space.

We complete the process by providing and clinically installing all needed items. We provide a warranty for all of our products and services, and we are licensed, bonded and insured.

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Aging Parents, Fall Prevention, Home Safety Solutions

Minimizing Fall Risks When Leaving Hospital

Regular Post

Written by Craig B

20 December 2021

Minimizing Fall Risks When Leaving Hospital

There is a high incidence of falls after hospital discharge, particularly among patients who are functionally dependent. Major fall risk factors at discharge include: decline in mobility, use of assistive devices and cognitive impairment/confusion.
Patients who were functionally dependent and needed professional help after discharge had the highest rate of falls.
Hospitalization in older adults, including those who are admitted for medical problems, rehabilitation and acute care, has been shown to be associated with decline in function and mobility – creating a higher risk of slip and fall accidents.
The period after discharge has been shown to be associated with high risk of falls, social problems and medication errors, with up to 30% of older people experiencing an adverse event following hospital discharge.
45% of older people fall in the period following discharge.
One study examining the incidence of falls in older, recently hospitalized medical patients requiring post-discharge home care, found that falls were substantially increased during the first month after hospital discharge.
Research has shown that fall prevention home safety assessment and home safety modification intervention immediately following discharge critically reduces the risk of falls once at home.
A full clinical assessment of function as it relates to how individuals are navigating their environment doing daily tasks (restroom, shower, walking through the home). Installation of safety grab bars, commode risers, shower chairs, ramps and rails are just a few of the modifications which can be made that will reduce fall risk.
Typically, upon discharge, families and are overwhelmed and often don’t know where to turn for resources (you can bring in MB home safety here if you’d like). Coming home following discharge is a critical time, where patients are often in a weakened, tired and cognitively impaired state. Family members rush to “get something in”. Just having a “safety grab bar” won’t do the trick, where your bar is placed and clinical attention to the placement of any modification is imperative in not risking further injury.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FALLS IN THE HOME WITH OUR FAQ'S

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Regular Post

Written by Craig B

29 November 2021

4 Wheel Walkers

More and more individuals are opting for wheeled walkers, also known as rollators, over traditional models with no or only front wheels.

If you don’t have the strength or endurance to lift and push a standard walker all day, a wheeled walker can help you go around. There are a few different types of wheeled walkers to consider:

In this post, we’ll look at the benefits and drawbacks of utilizing a four-wheel walker.

The Advantages of Using a Four-Wheel Walker

Several people prefer 4 wheel walkers to normal walkers because of its enhanced mobility, stability, and seat alternatives.

Mobility

A four-wheel walker assists you in maintaining your balance without exerting too much effort. You can still lean on your four legs, but the wheels allow you to move more rapidly and smoothly than you could with a walker without wheels.

Stable

A four-wheel walker is stable and long-lasting. If you’re looking for a rollator, you’ve probably heard there are three and four wheel options. Although three-wheeled walkers are quite versatile, they are not as stable as four-wheeled walkers. On four-wheel walkers, you can also put more weight.

Options for Seating and Backrest

The size of the 4-wheeled walker has the advantage of being able to accommodate a seat. There are even backrests on some of them. If you get fatigued while out and about, a seat on your walker allows you to stop and rest wherever you are.

All you have to do now is lock your rollator’s brakes and relax. Some types allow you to fold the backrest to make transporting the walker easier.

Size Modifications

Even though you should take measurements before buying a rollator to determine what handle height is most comfortable for you, having adjustment choices is useful. Rollators with four wheels often have a wider range of adjustability than three-wheeled rollators.

Cons of Using a Four-Wheel Walker

For some people, a four-wheeled walker isn’t the greatest option. There are several reasons why you might prefer to use a different style of walker.

Not for Use in Serious Weight-Bearing Situations

Wheeled walkers are designed for persons who need assistance with balance but not with weight bearing. A classic model may be ideal for you if you need to carry a substantial amount of your weight on a walker to get around.

Leaning too heavily on a wheeled walker can lead to control issues. Because of your weight, the rollator may travel faster than you’d want.

Your body weight has no bearing on whether or not you should use a wheeled walker. Bariatric walkers, in reality, are designed for persons who are overweight or obese. If you can’t support much of your own weight while walking, though, a wheel-less walker is the way to go.

Flexibility is limited.

A four-wheeled walker can help you move faster, but it doesn’t have a wide range of motion. A compact 3-wheel walker may be the ideal option for people who need to make fast turns and move in narrow spaces.

Selecting a Four-Wheel Walker

If a 4-wheel walker appears to be the best option for you, examine the following factors: height, wheel size, seats, and storage.

Height

The most significant component of your walker is its height and overall measurements. Consider the product’s measurements to guarantee that you’ll be able to fit it through the locations you frequent. Make sure you know the height of your handles as well as the height of your product.

It’s also helpful to have a walker that can be adjusted in height. Depending on the shoes we’re wearing, our height can change slightly. You should be able to grasp your walker while maintaining a comfortable wrist angle.

Size of the Wheels

Many people neglect the wheel size or choose small wheels because they appear natural. Large wheels, on the other hand, will be most useful. On uneven ground like cobblestone, little wheels can become wedged in crevices and cause problems.

Look for wheels that are at least 8 inches in diameter to be able to handle most terrain.

Taking a Seat or Leaving a Seat

You should also consider whether you want a seat on your rollator. While some people do not require a seat, others find it extremely useful. There aren’t always benches available for you to rest on. You’ll appreciate being able to stop and rest anywhere if you suddenly become tired or experience acute joint pain.

Seats with cushioning or padding are suitable for persons who have hip problems. Another good alternative is a backrest, which will maintain your posture upright as you sleep.

Storage Alternatives

Almost all rollators come with storage, whether it’s a basket, tray, bag, or all three. Select a model with sufficient storage space for your own belongings.

Baskets used to be the most popular storage option, but people are now realizing that they can be cumbersome and make foldable products more difficult to travel. Choose a rollator with a removable basket or storage units as an alternative.

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