REHAB SERVICES Q: What modifications can I put in place in my parent's home to decrease their chances of falling? Deb Satre, OTR A:One in four adults over 65 fall each year. These falls can result in injury as well as lead to fear of falling which can limit activity and impact quality of life. Although, environmental factors can impact the chances of falling, there can be other risk factors such as functional decline, chronic disease, postural hypotension, urinary incontinence, gait and balance disorders, medication side effects, poor vision, and impaired cognitive abilities that may also contribute to falls that should be considered. Environmental modifications to consider include removing unnecessary hazardous objects and clutter. Objects in pathways, slippery floors, uneven flooring, and scatter rugs can be removed to minimize tripping. Poor lighting can result in a fall. A light on at night to enhance vision may aid with fall prevention. Handrails by the bed, toilet, tub, and stairs can assist with transfers and balance. Adaptive bathing seats and appropriate height toilet or commode to aid with safe transfers and seating maybe recommended. Items in cupboards should be within easy reach to prevent overreaching or climbing to minimize loss of balance. Appropriate footwear and clothing as well as use of assistive devices for self-care completion and for ambulation may be recommended. A comprehensive evaluation by a therapist would be beneficial to aid with determining the cause of the falls and further provide recommendations for fall prevention. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services 1300 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org SANFORD" TM Bemidji REHAB SERVICES Q: What modifications can I put in place in my parent's home to decrease their chances of falling? Deb Satre, OTR A:One in four adults over 65 fall each year. These falls can result in injury as well as lead to fear of falling which can limit activity and impact quality of life. Although, environmental factors can impact the chances of falling, there can be other risk factors such as functional decline, chronic disease, postural hypotension, urinary incontinence, gait and balance disorders, medication side effects, poor vision, and impaired cognitive abilities that may also contribute to falls that should be considered. Environmental modifications to consider include removing unnecessary hazardous objects and clutter. Objects in pathways, slippery floors, uneven flooring, and scatter rugs can be removed to minimize tripping. Poor lighting can result in a fall. A light on at night to enhance vision may aid with fall prevention. Handrails by the bed, toilet, tub, and stairs can assist with transfers and balance. Adaptive bathing seats and appropriate height toilet or commode to aid with safe transfers and seating maybe recommended. Items in cupboards should be within easy reach to prevent overreaching or climbing to minimize loss of balance. Appropriate footwear and clothing as well as use of assistive devices for self-care completion and for ambulation may be recommended. A comprehensive evaluation by a therapist would be beneficial to aid with determining the cause of the falls and further provide recommendations for fall prevention. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services 1300 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org SANFORD" TM Bemidji