Fall Prevention Interventions That Support Senior Safety in Southlake, TX

Did you know that 25% of older adults fall each year? With the risk of hospitalization or a loss of independence, it's critical for seniors to take precautionary measures to prevent falls. Otherwise, seniors in Southlake, Texas, could miss out on enjoying the community's exceptional amenities. 

How can you help safeguard seniors? Keep reading to learn the best fall prevention interventions to support senior safety in Southlake!

Make Essential Home Safety Adjustments

When it comes to fall risk reduction, home modifications are key. Seniors should ask a friend or family member to help them audit their living space. Some of the strongest memory care safety strategies involve:

• Removing cords and other hazards
• Using backing to secure area rugs to the floors
• Choosing nonslip mats for bathroom showers
• Keeping clothing easily accessible
• Designating traffic lanes in living spaces

Regular decluttering should be part of any senior's apartment design to-do list. That means removing bulky furniture that obstructs pathways and taping down or removing area rugs. It also means keeping electrical cords out of common walkways. 

Seniors should have furniture arranged to promote easy movement from one room to the next. Having to maneuver around too many things can raise the risk of tripping. 

Ultimately, seniors don't want to be sidelined by injuries. With the right precautionary measures, seniors can be ready to enjoy Southlake's wonderful summer activities.

Prioritize Lighting

When a senior can't see the pathway in front of them clearly, their risk of tripping increases. That's why it's so important to ensure adequate lighting in all parts of a Southlake senior's living space. Seniors should:

• Make sure that light switches are easy to reach
• Store flashlights in each room
• Add nightlights to rooms
• Keep a lamp on a bedside table
• Upgrade lightbulbs regularly

These easy changes can keep seniors safe in their own homes. A nightstand with a lamp and flashlight in its drawer offers peace of mind for seniors when they go to bed. Similarly, at night, nightlights can make it easier to navigate hallways or bedrooms in the dark. 

Bathroom or kitchen light fixtures with burned-out bulbs can make lighting scenarios too dim. And for seniors already struggling with vision impairment issues, soft lighting can make limited vision even worse. Seniors should work with their friends and caregivers to check light fixtures regularly and replace bulbs.

Stay on Top of Health Appointments

One of the best ways for seniors to stay safe is to maintain routine health appointments. A healthcare provider in Southlake can assess a senior's mobility and alert them to potential challenges.They will consider factors such as:

• A senior's history of falls
• Chronic health conditions that may impact balance
• Medications that could increase fall risks

Some medications, for example, can trigger side effects like dizziness or weakness. And mixing a medication with certain foods could lead to stronger side effects. Doctors can evaluate a senior's medication list and help them understand the risks so they're not surprised.

If a senior has an eye condition like macular degeneration, their vision could make it harder to see obstacles. Similarly, seniors struggling with hearing loss may miss vital warnings that could prevent a fall. Seniors should get vision and hearing screened each year.

Seniors with respiratory issues may feel shortness of breath. And that can lead to unsteadiness. Seniors should express any health-related concerns to their provider.

Choose the Right Assistive Devices

The right assistive devices can offer excellent mobility support for older adults in just about any scenario. Good options include:

• Walkers and canes
• A seat in the shower
• An elevated toilet seat

If Southlake seniors have a fall history or challenges standing up from a sitting position, walkers can make a lot of sense. Both walkers and canes offer quick support if a senior feels like they may stumble. And they also let seniors conserve their energy, which can keep them steadier on their feet. 

Bathrooms can be hazardous zones since they are prone to getting wet. Adding a seat to a shower or tub allows seniors a more comfortable and safer way to stay clean. Non-slip rugs and elevated toilets also minimize the potential for falls in these spaces, as well. 

Maintain an Active Lifestyle

For seniors, physical activity can help keep muscles and bones strong. And regular exercise is an excellent way to improve mobility and flexibility in the effort to avoid falls. Seniors could try:

• Going for walks in Southlake
• Trying yoga or tai chi
• Joining a community dance class
• Introducing light strength training

Walking can build muscles and joints and contribute to higher energy levels. Other activities, like yoga, can improve posture and flexibility. The controlled movements offer the bonus benefit of helping seniors destress.

If a healthcare provider permits it, seniors should consider introducing light-weight training, too. Strength training can enhance muscles and bone density. Stronger muscles give joints better support, which can help mobility. 

Assisted living wellness programming can give seniors engaging opportunities to be active. Joining an aerobics or dance class can be a fun way to build cardiovascular strength while also forging new friendships. 

Look into Community Programs

Finally, tapping into local resources can help seniors stay safe. If you search online for senior safety Southlake, TX, you'll be met with:

• Community options that support senior care
• Local programming that targets fall prevention
• Exercise classes
• Information about senior support services

Many seniors may already have assistance from family and friends. But supplementing that support with a wider network can help seniors feel more confident as they greet each day in Southlake. 

Senior communities or Southlake organizations often provide fall prevention awareness seminars and other programs. Seniors should stay alert to these opportunities.

Pursue These Fall Prevention Interventions

The right fall prevention interventions can help seniors stay safe in their homes and communities. Seniors should audit their living spaces and add assistive devices. They also should stay active and seek guidance from their healthcare providers.

With groomed grounds and a robust lineup of social activities, Discovery Village Southlake offers Southlake's finest senior living community. Seniors can stay active through our Dimensions Health and Fitness programs or indulge in chef-prepared meals through Sensations Dining. Contact us today to learn more!