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.
Related Posts
Non Slip Floor Treatments
Non-slip floor treatments are coatings or solutions applied to surfaces to enhance traction and reduce the risk of slipping. These treatments are commonly used in environments where slips and falls are a concern, such as commercial kitchens, bathrooms, swimming pool decks, and industrial settings. Here are some common non-slip floor treatments: Non-slip coatings: These are […]
Installing Safety Grab Bars
Installing safety grab bars can be a relatively straightforward DIY project, but it's important to ensure their proper installation for safety and functionality. Here's what you need to know: Before you begin: Planning and Location: Identify the user's needs: Consider their height, strength, and specific requirements when choosing locations and types of grab bars. Choose the [...]
Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) and Physical Therapy
Read on to learn more about functional capacity evaluations and physical therapy. Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs): What are they? An FCE is a set of tests administered by a qualified professional (usually a physical or occupational therapist) to assess your ability to perform daily activities and job-related tasks. What do they involve? These tests typically include: History [...]
Functional Capacity Evaluation Costs 2024
The cost of a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) can vary depending on several factors, read on to learn more. Average Costs: Range: $871 to $916 (based on MDsave data) National average: Around $1,786 (according to various sources) Factors Affecting Cost: Location: Costs tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas. Complexity of the evaluation: More extensive [...]
What Is A Disability Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) Test?
A Disability Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive assessment conducted by healthcare professionals, often occupational therapists or physical therapists, to evaluate an individual's physical and functional abilities. The primary purpose of an FCE is to assess how an individual's health condition, injury, or disability affects their capacity to perform various tasks and activities, particularly [...]
Best Balance Exercises For Seniors
Exercises for balance problems are designed to improve your stability and reduce the risk of falls, especially as you age. Balance exercises can benefit people of all ages, but they are particularly important for older adults. These exercises help strengthen the muscles that support your balance and coordination. Here are some balance exercises you can [...]
Picking the Right Walking Cane
Walking canes are mobility aids designed to assist individuals with balance and stability issues while walking. They come in various styles, materials, and designs to cater to different needs and preferences. Here's an overview of walking canes: Types of Walking Canes: Standard Canes: These are the most common type of walking canes and are typically [...]
What Is A Home Safety Assessment?
A home safety assessment is an evaluation of your home to identify and eliminate potential hazards. It is typically performed by a licensed health-care professional, such as an occupational therapist or medical social worker. The assessment may also include home improvement recommendations to help you navigate your environment more securely, such as installing handrails in [...]
Keeping Healthy For Seniors 2023
Physical health is important for everyone, but it is especially important for seniors. As we age, our bodies naturally change and become more susceptible to disease. Physical activity can help to slow down the aging process and improve overall health. Here are some of the benefits of physical activity for seniors: Reduces the risk of [...]
Boosting 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 [...]