In-Home Fall Prevention Care | A compassionate Caregiver to prevent falling injuries in your home
A fall can be catastrophic for an elderly loved one, leading to broken bones, a reduced quality of life, and even premature death. In fact, one recent study suggested the number of deaths linked to elderly falls has more than doubled over the last decade, although it’s not clear exactly why.
At FCP Live-In, we believe seniors deserve to live with dignity and respect in the comfort of familiar surroundings. For over two decades, our compassionate caregivers and customized approach to live-in care have allowed hundreds of clients to remain safe, supported, and independent as they age.
With FCP Live-In, affordable, live-in, quality fall prevention caregiver support is now easier than ever.
Let us treat your loved one like family. Call us directly at 1 (866) 559-9492.
Falls Can be Life-Changing for Seniors
According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Approximately 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 65 will experience at least one fall annually. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies because of a fall. After death, fractures are the most serious fall consequence for seniors, especially those affecting the:
- Hip, femur (thigh bone), pelvis, and spine
- Humerus (upper arm bone), forearm, and hand
- The leg and ankle bones
Elderly people who fear falling are more likely to limit their activities and social engagements. This limited social care can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness.
Risk Factors for Falls
A variety of factors may make an older person more vulnerable to falls. Some of these risk factors are intrinsic, or internal. They include:
- Growing older
- History of falling
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Use of certain medications
- Muscle weakness
- Issues with balance or gait
- Postural hypotension
- Vision impairment
- Foot or ankle problems
- Foot pain
- Certain medical issues, such as heart failure, COPD, stroke, diabetes, Parkinson’s and dementia
- Fear of falling
Other fall risk factors are external, such as:
- Improper use of assistive devices
- Loose clothing creating a trip hazard
- Inadequate footwear, such as high heels or backless shoes
- Lack of stair handrails
- Poor stair design
- Lack of bathroom grab bars
- Obstacles and tripping hazards
- Slippery or uneven surfaces
- Poor lighting
- Lack of exercise
Fall Risk in Nursing Homes
Although the majority of falls occur at home, falls are also prevalent in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
In fact, one recent study suggested that approximately 1.5 falls occur per nursing home bed-year in the United States. Between 10% to 25% of these incidents result in hospital admissions and/or fractures. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, only about 5% of those age 65 and older live in nursing homes; however, nursing home patients make up about 20% of fall-related fatalities every year.
While the higher rate of falls in nursing homes and assisted living may reflect residents’ extenuating medical conditions, research suggests that many of these falls could be prevented. Unfortunately, too many long-term care facilities fail to take the time needed to properly assess residents for fall risk, address fall and trip hazards in a timely manner, or provide assistance when residents need to use the bathroom or perform other personal tasks.
Patients in skilled nursing facilities are also more likely to take medications that can increase their fall risk. In May 2013, for example, one study suggested a link between nonbenzodiazepine sleep medications and nursing home falls.
FCP Live-In and Fall Prevention Care
The fear of falling should never prevent a senior from living an independent and full life. At FCP Live-In, our compassionate and experienced caregivers receive training in the latest techniques for fall risk assessment and prevention. They will take the time to address any trip or fall hazards in your loved one’s home, provide the assistance they need to safely perform daily personal tasks, and even serve as an escort during doctors’ visits, shopping trips, and social engagements.
If the event your loved one does experience a fall, our caregivers will be on hand to lend aid and summon appropriate medical aid. You can always rest assured that we know who we’re sending into your home! In fact, all of our live-in caregivers undergo a strict screening and hiring process and are fully certified and provided with ongoing training.
At FCP-Live in, we understand that families depend on our expertise to provide quality care and experiences. If you’re ready to explore the BEST solution for fall prevention care, call 1 (866) 559-9492.
About FCP Live-In And In-Home Fall Prevention Caregiver support
We have provided the ultimate solution for assisted fall prevention care services since 1997. Our live-in caregiver services agency is committed to providing a unique and customized In-Home approach to fall prevention care with the goal of a lifestyle that provides enjoyment for the one in care, and families with peace of mind.
FCP Live-In is a Live-In Home Care company with over two decades of experience specializing in elderly care needs within the home. Our live-in caregiver staff provides an insurance policy of safe and supportive care, along with a 24/7 professional support system that is there for the client and the live-in caregiver at all times.
Fall Prevention Studies Linked:
LINK: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2735063
LINK: https://annals.org/aim/fullarticle/715308/preventing-falls-assisted-living-facilities
LINK: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15530179
LINK: https://www.in.gov/isdh/files/CDC_Falls_in_Nursing_Homes.pdf
LINK: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6228283/
LINK: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4125318/
Fall Prevention General Research:
LINK: https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-falls-prevention
LINK: https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/pdf/STEADI-FactSheet-RiskFactors-508.pdf
LINK: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358
FCP Live-In Testimonials
– Carol R. (Client) – Pittsfield, MA
– Bob L. (Son) – Peabody MA
– Larry K. (Son) – Quincy, MA
– Geraldine D. (Daughter) – Bridgeport, CT