Senior Care in Decatur GA

Every year, millions of older American’s fall. Having fallen once, their chance of another spill doubles. Over 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures, 95 percent of which occur due to falls. An unfortunate cycle can result: having fallen, they are now afraid of repeating the fall and, because of this fear, limit their social and physical interaction causing a weakening in their muscles and surrounding tissues, the very aspects of their physical body that help support strength, stamina and balance.

After a Fall

It’s difficult to talk your parent out of a fear, especially a fear that is well-founded. If they are getting back on the horse and becoming active again after a fall left them nervous and uncertain, than they are headed in the right direction. They have what it takes, emotionally, to leave the accident behind them and address the issues at hand. If, on the other hand, you find them making excuses for postponing their daily walk, social outings, and other activities that require they leave their home, the fall has got the best of them and it may take special effort to convince them of the need to exercise and become active again despite their fears. If you feel this information would best be imparted by a health care professional in order for your parent to take heed, make an appointment for a phone consultation with their doctor, physical therapist or other primary care support team, and they should be happy to take the lead on this important issue.

Home Issues

Make sure their home environment is safe. Remove any throw rugs that may cause a slip and fall. Make sure all pathways are free of wires and possible obstacles. Provide good lighting, including sensor lights. Install grab bars in key locations such as the shower and by the toilet.

Balance Issues

It’s important to address any issues that may be affecting your parent’s balance. These include medications and diseases.  Have a conversation about any health issues they may not have discussed. Are they experiencing any dizziness? Has their vision changed in any way? Do they feel shaky or are tremors causing difficulty with movement? If there seem to be changes in any of these areas, an appointment with their health care provider is in order.

Building up Confidence

Once you determine that there is no underlying medical issue causing lack of balance or difficulty with mobility, it’s time to help them regain their confidence. If possible, obtaining the services of a physical therapist a few days a week while they increase muscle strength and stamina is helpful. Having a professional by their side who can direct them in specific exercises can help ease their fears while they build their self-assurance.

Home Care

A senior care provider can assist them with the daily activities of living. They can accompany them on their daily walks, providing assurance, and get them to exercise classes at the local senior community center, many of which are designed to increase balance as well as strength. They can provide transportation to social events, all the while assuring them that, with time and effort, they can become strong and fearless once again.

If you or an aging family member are considering senior care in Decatur, GA, please contact the caring staff at Caring Companions of Atlanta 470-514-5954 .

We provide quality non-medical services to our clients in their homes or in a facility if that’s where they live. Our staff is available for care plans for extensive care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or as little as 4 hours per visit. Reach out to us, and one of our outstanding administrative staff will meet with potential clients to assist them and their families in designing an effective, personal plan of care.

Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html