September is Falls Prevention Month, and The Kensington Reston is hosting a special event, “Strong & Steady: Fall Prevention for Your Aging Loved One,” to benefit our community.
Join us for a screening of Saving Claire, a documentary that explores one woman’s struggle with aging and the risks of falls. The film highlights how behavioral patterns can increase fall risks and the consequences that may follow.
Speakers include:
- Richard Hilburn, MD Geriatrician with Goals of Care, PLLC
- Monica Perry-Fitch, RN, Director of Nursing Services at The Kensington Reston
- Debbie Adams, PTA Regional Vice President HealthPro Heritage Rehab
- Anthony Barone, MPS, MPH CEO & Protective Paramedic™ Practitioner Emergility
- Heidi Garvis, BS, CMC Certified Care Manager & Co-Owner Caring Considerations
After the film, participate in a panel discussion with medical experts, including a geriatrician, nurse, and physical therapist. Enjoy light refreshments while gaining valuable insights into fall prevention interventions for your senior loved one.
RSVP now to join us at The Kensington Reston for this informative evening and read about how you can help prevent falls in your loved one.
What are the three types of fall prevention?
If you’re caring for an elderly loved one, it’s important to understand the various strategies available for preventing falls.
Here’s a straightforward approach combining behavioral, environmental, and physical strategies to help safeguard your loved one.
1. Behavioral strategies
Teach seniors about recognizing fall risks and applying safer practices in their daily routines.
Encourage activities such as Tai Chi and gentle yoga, strengthening balance and flexibility to help minimize fall risks.
2. Environmental modifications
Check the living space regularly for potential hazards and make necessary adjustments like securing rugs, improving lighting, and clearing pathways.
In senior living communities, ensure that environments are adapted for safety, such as installing non-slip flooring and adequate lighting.
3. Physical interventions
Review health conditions and medications regularly that might affect balance or cognitive functions and adjust as needed to reduce risks.
Provide support with canes, walkers, or other aids as recommended by health professionals after an assessment of individual needs.
10 standard fall prevention interventions for caregivers
Creating a safe home environment is essential for preventing falls in elderly loved ones.
Here’s a practical checklist for caregivers:
Clear the clutter
- Keep walkways free of clutter, cords, and tripping hazards
- Regularly organize and remove new obstacles
Secure rugs and carpets
- Use non-slip backing under rugs
- Ensure carpets are firmly secure and edges are not frayed
Enhance lighting
- Install brighter bulbs in hallways, staircases, bathrooms, and bedrooms
- Place night lights in key areas for visibility at night
Install safety devices
- Install grab bars in the shower, tub, and near the toilet
- Ensure handrails are sturdy on all staircases
Modify bathroom safety
- Place non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower
- Install a shower seat and hand-held shower for seated bathing
Furniture arrangement
- Ensure chairs and sofas are stable and easy to get in and out of
- Remove low furniture from common walking paths
Kitchen safety
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach
- Use slip-resistant flooring or mats in areas prone to wetness
Footwear and clothing
- Ensure proper fitting, non-slip shoes are worn indoors and outdoors
- Hem clothing to avoid tripping hazards
Regular health checks
- Review medications with a healthcare provider to minimize side effects
- Schedule regular physical check-ups to monitor balance and mobility
Education and training
- Educate yourself and other caregivers about fall risks and prevention strategies
- Learn CPR and first aid for effective response in case of a fall
Seven reasons to consider moving to a senior living community
Deciding to transition a loved one to a senior living community is a significant step that can greatly improve their safety and quality of life.
Let’s look at some key indicators that it might be time to consider this option.
1. Increasing frequency of falls
As falls become more frequent or severe, this might indicate that the home environment can no longer be adapted sufficiently to ensure safety. Senior living communities are designed with optimal safety features that can prevent falls for seniors.
2. Escalating care needs
As a loved one’s daily care needs become more complex—requiring medication management, mobility assistance, or frequent medical attention—it may surpass what family caregivers can provide. Senior living communities offer professional care around the clock.
3. Cognitive decline
Noticeable declines in cognitive function, such as memory loss or confusion, can pose significant risks in an unsupervised setting. Senior living communities provide specialized care and environments designed to manage and mitigate the risks associated with cognitive impairments.
4. Social isolation
If your loved one is becoming increasingly isolated, moving to a community setting can provide social interactions and activities that enhance their mental and emotional well-being.
5. Caregiver stress
If the physical, emotional, or financial burden on caregivers becomes overwhelming, consider a setting where your loved one can receive the care they need without the same level of strain on family members.
6. Safety concerns
If safety concerns cannot be easily addressed in the home—such as wandering in the case of dementia—a senior living community can offer a secure environment with staff trained to handle such situations.
7. Chronic health issues
If managing chronic health issues becomes too complex or requires medical skills beyond what family caregivers can provide, a senior living community can ensure that professional acuity care and monitoring are always available.
Therapy and wellness programs at The Kensington Reston
At The Kensington Reston, we prioritize our residents’ well-being through comprehensive therapy and wellness programs that promote strength, balance, and overall health.
Here are our therapy and wellness programs and safety features in our communities:
- HealthPRO Heritage Rehabilitation services: Provides on-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy to improve mobility and strength
- Brain fitness program: Supports cognitive health and mental agility
- Wellness classes: These include yoga, tai chi, and other activities to maintain physical fitness.
- Safety measures: Non-slip flooring, grab bars, and 24/7 monitoring to prevent falls and ensure resident safety
Join us at The Kensington Reston for fall safety insights
Located in Reston, Virginia, The Kensington Reston is a premier assisted living and memory care community that specializes in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.
Our residents and their families benefit from a comprehensive calendar of events, including the Fall Prevention Event featuring the “Saving Clare” documentary and an expert panel.
This event emphasizes our commitment to enhancing daily life and maintaining mobility for our community members.
Please contact us for more information or to inquire about joining The Kensington Reston. We look forward to being a part of your journey with your senior loved one.