Falls Prevention in Alexandria

Each year, there are close to 4.5 million visits to the emergency room due to an older adult falling.

Those 4.5 million emergency room visits result in close to 1.4 million hospitalizations each year. By preventing falls by removing risk factors, we can help lower that number and keep our seniors healthy in their own homes. At Griswold Home Care for Northern Virginia East, we are honoring National Falls Prevention Month by sharing facts about falls, what causes them, and the common effects of falling. Read on to learn more.

What Causes Falls in Older Adults?

Falls can be caused by several factors, and it’s important to identify which ones pose a risk in your home. Most falls result from more than one factor. Thus, the more risk factors a person has or is exposed to, the more likely they are to fall.

• Eyesight, hearing, and reflexes not being as sharp as they used to be
• Certain conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or problems with nerves
• Conditions that cause rushed movement to the bathroom, such as incontinence
• Mild cognitive impairment or dementia
• Age-related loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia)
• Foot problems that cause pain and unsafe footwear
• Some medications with side effects that include dizziness or confusion
• Safety hazards in the home
• Vitamin D deficiency

What are Common Effects of a Fall?

Many falls are minor and do not result in injury. However, roughly 37% of those who fall reported an injury that required medical attention or restricted their ability to be active for at least one day. Any injury caused by a fall can make it difficult to get around, do everyday activities, or live independently. Some common injuries include:

• Broken bones: Commonly the wrist, ankle, or hip.
• Head injuries: An older person who falls and hits their head should see a doctor immediately.
• Fear of falling again: Even if they are not injured, many people become afraid of falling, which can lead them to be less active, causing physical weakness and actually increasing their chances of falling.

How Can Griswold Help?

At Griswold Home Care for Northern Virginia East, we provide several nonmedical home care services throughout the area. From Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Mt. Vernon, and more. We are here to help our Northern Virginia community Live Assured.

If you are concerned about a loved one falling while you aren’t home, we can help. We offer specially tailored fall prevention and recovery support available to you in your home. Our Caregivers can assist with placing night lights throughout your home, adding non-slip mats in common walkways, and helping with range-of-motion exercises to increase your balance. We also offer our 24/7 virtual care to all of our clients. This technology, when paired with our in-home care, can help provide peace of mind throughout the day and night.