How to Keep Your Loved One from Falling When She’s Out and About

Elderly Care in Southampton NY

It’s not unusual for family caregivers to worry that their elderly loved ones will fall when they go out in public. Falling can be very dangerous for elderly loved ones, but there are strategies you can use to help your loved one be as safe as possible.

Check Your Loved One’s Shoes

One of the most frequently overlooked causes of falling for an elderly loved one can be her footwear. Neither you nor she may think much about it, but having the right shoes on can help your loved one to feel more stable while she’s walking. Look for shoes that have flat, non-skid soles and make sure that they’re properly fitted for her feet.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

If your elderly loved one isn’t seeing properly, obstacles can be blurry or may not appear to be as close to her as they actually are. This can result in your loved one running into items that she should have been able to avoid easily. Make sure that you schedule regular eye exams for your loved one. If her eyesight is changing, new eyewear can help to minimize the risk of injury.

Use Appropriate Assistive Devices

Many elderly loved ones don’t enjoy using assistive devices when they’re out in public. They may fear that using a cane or a walker can make them appear to be more of a target or might inspire other people to point or stare. The reality, however, is that these assistive devices can help your loved one to be less likely to stumble or fall when she’s out in public. Using these devices is important, but may take some coaxing.

Talk to Your Loved One’s Doctor about Medication Side Effects

Your loved one may be taking medications that include side effects that can make her drowsy or less likely to be able to avoid obstacles. If you’re concerned that this is the case, talk with her doctor about the medications that she’s taking. There may be a substitute medication that doesn’t include those side effects or your loved one may be able to take a lower dose.

You may also want to consider hiring elderly care providers to accompany your loved one when you’re not able to go with her. They can help provide peace of mind that your loved one will have help with her.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elderly care in Southampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.