What Fall Risks Might Increase During the Summer?

Posted: 7/6/2018 2:51 PM by Interim HealthCare
Falls are some of the most serious risks elderly adults face. Each year throughout the United States millions of seniors experience falls, and a large percentage of these will suffer injuries serious enough to end up in the hospital. These injuries can lead to serious consequences, including greatly diminished mobility, health, and quality of life. While there are some fall risks your parent is likely to face at all times, changes in seasons can also present different and increased risks. Knowing these is an important step in adjusting your care routine to reduce the risk and protect your parent.

Some new and increased fall risks your senior might face during the summer months include:
  • Tripping over the hose or garden tools in the lawn left from tending to it.
  • Slipping on the deck when enjoying a day at the pool with family.
  • Slipping after using products such as sunscreen that can make their skin slippery.
  • Experiencing dizziness from being overheated or dehydrated. 

Introducing home care into your care routine with your aging parent this summer can be an effective way to help them avoid fall risks and stay safer. This care provider can provide physical support and assistance to manage mobility challenges and balance problems so that your parent can get more active, preserve their independence, and stay safer throughout the summer season and beyond. Encouraging your aging parent to get more physical activity, and supporting a healthy diet can also manage risk factors that reduce the chances your parent will experience a fall.

Mobility issues are extremely common among elderly adults. These challenges, which can include arthritis, lack of range of motion and strength, balance problems, dizziness, and more, can put your parent at high risk for serious injury. Experiencing these problems can also diminish quality of life by reducing your parent’s activity level, and making them feel as though they are unable to engage in the lifestyle they want. If your parent is experiencing these types of challenges and limitations, starting home care for them can help. An in-home senior care services provider can be with your parent to offer physical support and assistance that addresses these challenges in safe and effective ways can help them be more active, maintain their independence, and avoid potentially catastrophic complications and consequences. This assistance can help your parent with daily challenges, as well as seasonal difficulties that increase fall risk for your parent.

Learn more about home care.