How a Fall Prevention Program Supports Safer Living for Seniors in Orland Park
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Has your parent recently experienced a fall? Studies show that 1 in 4 US adults 65 years and older report falling annually.
While not every fall leads to an injury, even minor incidents can affect confidence and independence. That's why joining a fall prevention program can make such a difference. These programs teach practical strategies to improve balance, build strength, and reduce risks.
Orland Park is a wonderful city for older adults to enjoy an active lifestyle. With its parks, senior-friendly amenities, and supportive community, it's an ideal setting to focus on senior safety in Orland Park, IL.
Keep reading to discover how a fall prevention program can support aging in place and improve the quality of life for seniors in Orland Park.
What Is a Fall Prevention Program?
A fall prevention program is designed to help seniors with fall risk reduction. The goal of a fall prevention program is to create a safer lifestyle. These programs help older adults understand why falls happen and how to prevent them by focusing on:
- Education
- Awareness
- Guidance
- Memory care mobility support
Fall prevention programs are beneficial for seniors who want to maintain their independence longer. They help seniors feel more confident in their daily activities.
Key Components of Fall Prevention Programs
Now that you're more familiar with what a fall prevention program is, let's review the individual elements that make up the program, specifically:
- Education
- Exercise
- Environmental modifications
- A review of medication
Education
Education is one of the most critical elements of a fall prevention program because understanding the risks is the first step towards staying safe. Seniors learn about:
- Slippery floors
- Poor lighting
- Health issues that affect balance
These programs also provide tips on how to move safely at home and in the community. By knowing what to watch out for, seniors can make better choices and feel more confident in their daily lives. Families are often included in the education process, so everyone understands how to create a more supportive environment.
Exercise
Exercise is another vital part of a fall prevention program. Gentle movements, stretching, and balance training help strengthen the muscles needed for walking and standing. Even light activity can improve coordination and flexibility, making everyday tasks easier and safer.
Regular exercise also helps build confidence, which reduces the fear of falling. Even better, seniors don't need to do intense workouts. Small, consistent efforts can make a big difference over time.
Environmental Modifications
Simple changes at home and in apartment design can play a significant role in preventing falls. For example, installing grab bars in the bathroom and inside the shower makes moving around much safer.
At Discovery Commons Northshore, we prioritize assisted living wellness. Our apartment showers are large and include a built-in chair, giving seniors extra comfort and stability while bathing. The bathrooms also have grab bars installed near the toilet and inside the shower for convenience and safety.
These features help create a safer, more supportive living environment where seniors can move with confidence. Making minor adjustments to the home reduces risks and provides peace of mind for both seniors and their families.
Review of Medication
Reviewing your medications is an integral part of any fall prevention program. Medications can sometimes cause side effects. Some side effects include:
- Dizziness: Dizziness can affect balance and increase the risk of falling
- Drowsiness: Feeling overly tired can make it harder to stay steady
- Low blood pressure: This can lead to lightheadedness when standing up
These can all increase the risk of falling. As part of a fall prevention program, healthcare professionals review all prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines to ensure they are safe and necessary.
This helps identify possible drug interactions. It also helps identify medication adjustments that can improve balance and alertness. By staying informed and working closely with doctors, seniors can better manage their health and reduce fall risks.
What to Do if You've Had a Fall
If you've had a fall and no one is around, it's important to stay calm and take things slowly. First, check if you're hurt. Move gently to see if you feel:
- Pain
- Dizziness
- Discomfort
If you can, try to reach a phone to call 911 or a family member for help. If you have a medical alert device, press the button right away.
If you are not badly hurt and feel strong enough to get up, roll onto your side, then slowly move onto your hands and knees. Crawl or slide toward a stable piece of furniture, like a chair or bed. This can help you stand up carefully.
If you feel any pain or can't get up safely, stay where you are, make yourself as comfortable as possible, and call for help. Staying prepared and knowing what to do can prevent further injury.
Introducing Technology Assistance
Technology can play an important role in keeping seniors safe. Many smartwatches now have a built-in fall detection feature.
If the watch senses a hard fall, it can automatically send an emergency message to chosen contacts, such as family members or caregivers. This quick response can help seniors get assistance faster, even if they're alone and unable to reach a phone.
Some devices can also call emergency services directly when a fall is detected, providing extra peace of mind. For seniors living in assisted living, these tools add an additional layer of safety and reassurance.
Step Into a Safer, More Confident Future
A fall prevention program offers a comprehensive approach to senior safety, focusing on education, exercise, environmental modifications, and medication review. These programs empower older adults to live more confidently and independently by reducing fall risks and improving overall quality of life.
Experience a lifestyle focused on total wellness at Discovery Commons Orland Park. From yoga and educational classes to spiritual gatherings and engaging activities like Bingo Night and Book Club, there's always something to inspire you.
Our caring team is always nearby, ensuring you or your loved one enjoys the best possible quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover how we make senior living safer, healthier, and more fulfilling.