What are the 5 Elements of Falls Safety for the Elderly?
As cherished family members grow older, it may induce concerns about their health and safety. Fall alert systems can provide families with the reassurance that their dear ones are being cared for, whether at home or on the go. There are an array of safety-enhancing products available in the market and with thorough research into the various options, families can be well-prepared to make a knowledgeable choice that suits everyone’s needs. A common question asked is, “What are the 5 elements of falls safety for the elderly and what are the aspects to keep in mind when selecting a fall alarm?” Isaac Care can help with these answers and is here to make the process of caring for your loved one easier.
Did You Know?
Over 14 million, or 1 in 4 older adults report falling every year.
5 Elements of Falls Safety
Falls safety for the elderly is crucial in order to maintain independence and prevent injury. It can provide a sense of reassurance to families that relative steps have been taken to prevent any accidents from occurring.
Home Safety Modifications
- Declutter living spaces by removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, or furniture blocking walkways.
- Install grab bars in the bathroom, especially near toilets and in showers.
- Ensure good lighting, especially in hallways and staircases. Night lights are also helpful.
Regular Exercise and Strength Training
- Encourage balance and strength training exercises like tai chi, yoga, or simple leg-strengthening routines to improve coordination.
- Promote flexibility and joint mobility exercises, which help with stability and reduce fall risks.
Medication Management
- Review medications regularly with a doctor or pharmacist. Some medications may cause dizziness or balance issues, increasing the risk of falls.
- Be cautious of sedatives and sleep aids, as they may impair alertness and coordination.
Vision and Hearing Health
- Schedule regular vision and hearing check-ups. Poor eyesight or hearing loss can reduce spatial awareness, making falls more likely.
- Ensure corrective lenses or hearing aids are up-to-date and used properly.
Proper Footwear
- Recommend well-fitting, non-slip shoes with good support. Avoid slippers, high heels, or walking barefoot.
- For those with foot issues, consider consulting a podiatrist for orthotic solutions that enhance stability.
This advice helps prevent falls among the elderly, supporting their safety and well-being.
Features Of Fall Alarms On Offer
It is vital to consider the features of the product being offered. These can make all the difference in preventing an accident and the time it can take for support to arrive. Some questions to ask the provider are:
- Does it send out an alarm for help and how does this work?
- Can the device be worn?
- Does it have a GPS tracking system so your loved one can be located if there is an accident?
- Is there 24 hour support available?
These questions are crucial as accidents can happen at any time in the day or night. By choosing one with the right features, you can provide the care needed for your loved one while also giving them the freedom and independence to live safely on their own.
Isaac Care uses a unique blend of care and assistive technology with the Isaac Fall Alarm. It has a range of features that give the reassurance your loved one is being looked after. We provide the tools and support people need to access high quality care from the comfort of their own homes.
Isaac Fall Alarm Features
• GPS.
• 24/7 support.
• Easy set up.
• 3 emergency contacts.
• Discreet and lightweight.
- GPS enabled whereby you can pinpoint the location of your loved one whether inside or outdoors.
- 24/7 call centre support which means help is always at hand.
- No set up required so it is suitable for everyone.
- Linked to our circle of care app with 3 emergency contacts.
- Discreet and lightweight and can be worn around the neck making it easy to access.
Ease of Use
When selecting an alarm, it’s crucial to consider its ease of use. Elderly loved ones may not have the technological know-how to operate a complicated device. That’s why an alarm that’s simple to use is the best option. The easier it is to operate, the more likely it will be used in an emergency. An accident can happen at any time, so choosing one that is straightforward could make all the difference in preventing a serious injury.
With our Isaac Fall Alarm, there is no set up required or any need for installation. When it is purchased, the buyer will receive an application form by email which captures the details of the person using the device and the emergency contacts. It will then be pre-configured and sent out by courier. When the Isaac Fall Alarm is received it only needs to be turned on. A nice, easy process for everyone involved.
Reliablility
A product that is prone to malfunctioning or providing false alarms can lead to unnecessary panic and even a loss of trust. By providing a constant sense of security, a reliable alarm can give families peace of mind and can make a world of difference in keeping loved ones safe.
With the Isaac Fall Alarm, we designed it with a sense of trust in mind. When the battery is running low, there is a voice prompt to charge it. This means you never have to worry about it running out unexpectedly. The device requires charging every 4-5 days and it has an in-built accelerometer which can detect the impact of a fall, giving you the reassurance that it knows when one occurs.
We recommend pressing the alarm button for help in all eventualities, leading to emergency services or your circle of care contacts. This allows multiple family members to stay involved and to be kept up to date with instant in app notifications.
It is important to remember that each person and situation is unique when it comes to choosing the correct product. Care should be taken to ensure that the right one matches the specific needs of your loved one, whether it is for recovery, long-term care, or at-home assistance.
If you’re considering one, take time to assess your circumstances and consult with professionals when needed. It is vital to have the right people available and the right care, which is exactly what Isaac Care provides with our dedicated team ready to assist, support and provide peace of mind for families and loved ones.
Get in Touch
Our dedicated team are on hand to assist you in any way. Contact us on (042) 936 8391 or fill in your details in the contact form and one of our team will be in touch.