For seniors, injuries are often more severe than what they might have experienced when they were younger. Older adults are also more likely to be injured due to new health issues, such as weakened bones and thinner skin. Every year, more than one million elderly people are admitted to emergency rooms for injuries, many of which are easily preventable. Senior safety is a major concern, and following is a list of the most common injuries aging adults are at risk for and how they can be avoided.
Fall-Related Injuries
One out of every three seniors aged 65 and older experiences a fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of both nonfatal and fatal injuries among seniors, and 20 to 30 percent of these injuries are moderate to severe and can cause disability or increase the risk of death. Falls can result in a wide range of injuries, including lacerations, sprains, hip fractures, head trauma, and even traumatic brain injuries.
Home modifications, including reducing trip hazards, installing grab bars in the bathroom, adding railings to staircases, and enhancing lighting throughout the home, can reduce the risk of falls among seniors. Seniors should also get regular exercise to increase balance, and older adults should speak with their doctors to review any prescriptions that may cause dizziness.
Having a home caregiver nearby can help your loved one avoid fall-related injuries. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional at-home care seniors can trust and rely on.
Fractures
Older adults are at higher risk for bone fractures than younger people. With age, the bones lose their ability to resist cracks, which can eventually lead to breaks. Approximately 50 percent of women and 25 percent of men over the age of 50 will experience age-related fractures at some point. Older adults are also at risk for osteoporosis, which is the loss of bone density. Fractures can develop in any bones—particularly those in the hips, arms, and spine—from any number of causes.
While falls are the leading cause of fractures, seniors can also experience fractures following car accidents or even something as simple as twisting while standing. Seniors can reduce their risk of fractures by getting enough vitamin D and calcium, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, exercising to increase balance and strengthen bones, and using walking aids.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Carmichael homecare. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Elevator-Related Accidents
While elevators are widely viewed as a safer alternative to stairs or escalators, a study published in 2010 found they’re common sites of accidents and injuries among elderly people. Thousands of older Americans end up in emergency rooms every year due to injuries that occur in elevators, most of which are caused by slips or falls. Roughly one-third of elevator-related injuries are caused by the doors closing on seniors, and about 40 percent of ER admissions for elevator-related injuries are due to hip fractures. The best way for a senior to avoid getting hurt in or near an elevator is to avoid rushing and, if possible, have someone hold the door.
Some families may not always be available to supervise their loved ones and prevent serious injuries. For many seniors in Carmichael, CA, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Home Care Assistance, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Home Care Assistance at (916) 485-4663 today.