Page 2 - Senior Times South Central Michigan October 2023 - 30-10

Page 2 Senior Times - October 2023
KEEPING PACE – FALLS PREVENTION AWARENESS
By: Ryan Miller, Senior Care Partners P.A.C.E.
Falls Prevention Awareness Week was observed in September. The National Council on Aging and healthcare professionals across the country continue to raise awareness on prevent- ing falls and reducing the risk of falls. I met with Heidi Harrell, PT, DPT, CPHQ, and manager of therapy at Senior Care Partners PACE, to dis- cuss the topic. Heidi completed her Doctorate
in Physical Therapy (DPT) at University of Michigan-Flint and is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ).
of the surroundings), make stairs safe, implement non-skid surfaces, and install grab bars in key areas.
stairs in your home, secure handrails on each side of all staircases.
If you need an assistive device when leaving the home, you need it when you are walking INSIDE the home as well. Talk to your PT and/ or OT about any assistive device adjustments or needs you may have.
Second, have your vision and hearing tested regularly and prescription lenses or hearing devic- es adjusted to best meet your needs.
It is also imperative to have your doctor and pharmacist review your medications regularly to ensure those that contribute to fall risk are reduced, removed, or changed.
Ryan: Trying to avoid falls in the home is one thing. Being out in the community can bring a whole other set of scenarios. What should we be aware of when we are out of our homes – at the grocery store, at the park, going to a doctor's appointment?
Contrary to the depictions in cartoons, sitcoms, and movies – I learned that banana peels are NOT the most common causes of slips, trips, or falls. Let’s learn more about Falls Prevention from Heidi.
The primary factor that will prevent falls is – Keep Moving!
With aging, there is a decrease in muscular strength, response time, flexibility and change in cognition. Exercise can help improve these by focusing on agility, balance, coordination, reac- tion time and power.
• Agility helps maintain balance. Continue walks
Heidi: There are several points to consider. First, always use the recommended assistive device when you are walking in the community. If you get fatigued quickly, opt to use the power wheelchairs or scooters that are often offered at the shopping stores. Know your physical limita- tions! Also, before leaving home, put on sensible, good fitting, comfortable shoes with non-slip soles. Make sure the shoe has a good tread to prevent slipping.
Ryan: What are some of the most common fall hazards for seniors?
Heidi: Falls among seniors are common. One in four Americans age 65+ fall each year. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emer- gency room for a fall. Falling is one of the most common sources of injuries around the home. BUT... falling is preventable! The most common falling hazards include loose throw rugs, clutter, lack of light or light that is not directed properly or glaring light, stairs, lack of handrails, slippery kitchen and/or bathroom floors, showers, and tub surfaces.
around the home or backyard. Use the recom-
Ryan: I know that everyone’s living situation is different, but are there some general recom- mendations you would give to help reduce the risk of falling in the home?
• Work on coordination by using movements that cross the body. Use the left hand instead of the right. Caregivers can assist with ROM (range of motion) exercises as prescribed.
And finally, ask for a companion to assist you with shopping or going to appointments! Avoid going out alone in inclement weather.
Heidi: Yes. There are several recommenda- tions. First, ask your occupational or physical therapist about having a home safety inspection completed. Therapists can help you keep your home safe by removing tripping hazards, increase lighting (or adjust lighting for proper illumination
• Moving at a different pace/speed improves response time. Dance to different music tempos. • Improve lower body power by practicing “stand
Thank you to Heidi Harrell for sharing her advice on falls prevention. Hopefully, we will all be a little safer in our homes and in the com- munity. Please be sure to consult with a licensed healthcare professional before making changes to your physical activities, medication, or if you have experienced recent falls.
mended assistive device for safety and support. • Balance is dependent on the vestibular system,
vision, and the ability to maintain good head stability in space. Medication may affect the ability to balance. Make sure hearing and vision are checked regularly.
Second, always be aware of your surround- ings and avoid obstacles. Look before stepping – whether up or down from a curb, or where you are walking. Be aware of the terrain and the sur- face you are walking across. Use handrails and elevators when available (if possible).
up, sit down.” This replicates getting in and out
of a car or chair and helps stability and strength. • Practice standing on one leg (in a safe manner
– with a person to assist, and/or at a kitchen counter for progressively lessening support). This helps manage stairs. Also, if you have
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