Falls represent a significant health risk for older adults, particularly in the UK, where they account for over 70,000 hip fractures each year. More than 95% of these fractures are caused by falls, most often when individuals fall sideways. Falls are not only the leading cause of accident-related mortality among the elderly, but they also result in life-changing injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. These statistics underscore the serious, often fatal, consequences of falls, particularly for those over 65.
The risk increases with age: 30% of individuals over 65 and 50% of those over 80 will experience at least one fall every year. Moreover, falls are the most common cause of injury-related deaths in people aged 75 and above in the UK. For families with elderly loved ones, this raises critical questions about how to reduce these risks and ensure their safety.
Live-in care has emerged as one of the most effective solutions to mitigate the dangers of falls for older adults. This type of care provides personalised, continuous support tailored to an individual's specific needs, offering a level of assistance that can significantly reduce the risk of falls while enabling your loved one to maintain independence at home.
Here are some of the key ways live-in care can help prevent falls and safeguard the well-being of older adults:
Around-the-Clock Monitoring and Support: Having a professional carer on hand 24/7 ensures that older adults receive the supervision they need during daily activities. This can prevent situations where falls are most likely to occur, particularly in high-risk areas like stairs, bathrooms, or poorly lit rooms.
Home Environment Adjustments: A live-in carer can assess and adapt the home to ensure safety. This may involve removing trip hazards, improving lighting, and ensuring that mobility aids, such as grab bars or rails, are properly installed and accessible.
Mobility Assistance: Falls often happen when older adults overestimate their ability to move safely without help. Live-in carers are trained to provide mobility support, ensuring that your loved one has the assistance they need when walking, standing, or navigating the home.
Immediate Response in Case of Falls: In the unfortunate event of a fall, the quick response of a live-in carer can reduce the risk of further complications. They are trained to provide immediate assistance and can seek medical attention promptly, minimising the chances of serious injury or long periods without care.
By choosing live-in care, families can significantly reduce the risk of falls while ensuring their loved ones receive the personalised attention they deserve. This comprehensive, person-centred approach to care allows older adults to continue living independently and safely at home, providing families with peace of mind.
To learn more about how ENA Care Group’s live-in care services can help safeguard your loved ones and prevent falls, please visit ENA Care Group.
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