As we age, one of the greatest risks to our wellbeing is the chance of a fall. The statistics speak for themselves—falling is one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, with many incidents leading to long-term complications. At Buckland Care, we understand the impact a fall can have on both residents and their families, and we are committed to taking every precaution to reduce the risk, whether at home or within our care homes.
Falls Prevention at Home
Creating a safer environment at home can significantly reduce the risk of falls, and there are some practical steps that can make all the difference:
1. Decluttering Pathways
Clutter can turn into a serious hazard. A clear, open pathway in hallways and living areas can prevent accidental trips and falls. It’s worth taking the time to ensure that walkways are kept free of unnecessary items like loose rugs, wires, and even furniture that may be in the way.
2. Improving Lighting
Good lighting is essential to prevent falls. Ensure that all areas of the home are well-lit, especially hallways, stairs, and bathrooms. Motion-activated night lights are a great addition to help navigate the home at night, reducing the chance of tripping in the dark.
3. Supportive Footwear
Slippers and shoes that provide good grip are key to ensuring balance and stability. Wearing ill-fitting or slippery footwear indoors can lead to dangerous slips, so it’s worth investing in supportive options.
4. Regular Exercise
Strength and balance exercises are an excellent way to reduce the risk of falls. Simple daily exercises can build the muscles needed for stability, improve coordination, and boost confidence when moving around the home. These exercises can be done with a physical therapist or even using online resources for guided sessions.
5. Safety Equipment
Installing handrails in high-risk areas like the bathroom, staircases, and by doorways is an effective way to add stability. Raised toilet seats, shower chairs, and non-slip mats are also important additions that can make a big difference in fall prevention.
6. Routine Eye and Hearing Checks
Sometimes falls can occur because of poor vision or hearing. Regular check-ups ensure that any issues are detected early and can be addressed with corrective measures, like wearing appropriate eyewear or hearing aids.
How We Prevent Falls in Our Care Homes
At Buckland Care, we’ve taken a comprehensive approach to fall prevention that blends proactive measures with personalised care. Our aim is to create a safe, supportive environment that promotes wellbeing without compromising independence.
1. Risk Assessments
Each resident is assessed upon arrival and regularly thereafter to identify any risk factors that could lead to a fall. This means we can provide the necessary support and equipment to minimise the chances of an accident.
2. Personalised Care Plans
Our care plans are tailored to each resident’s needs, incorporating exercises to improve strength and mobility, alongside specific guidance for managing conditions that may affect balance, such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease.
3. Safety Features Throughout the Home
All our care homes are designed with falls prevention in mind. We have handrails in hallways, bathrooms fitted with non-slip surfaces, and appropriate furniture that helps residents move around safely. Additionally, our homes are regularly maintained to ensure that any potential hazards are swiftly removed or repaired.
4. Ongoing Training for Staff
Our staff are trained to be vigilant about potential hazards and to assist residents in preventing falls. From ensuring walkways are clear to helping residents with mobility aids, we take a proactive approach in everyday care. This also includes regular updates to training as new techniques and technologies for fall prevention become available.
5. Encouraging Activity and Independence
While preventing falls is a priority, we also understand the importance of encouraging movement and independence. Our activity programs are designed to improve residents’ strength and balance, ensuring they stay active and engaged in a way that’s safe and supportive.
6. Monitoring and Rapid Response
Should a fall occur, we have monitoring systems in place that allow us to respond quickly. Our staff are trained to handle falls with care, ensuring the resident’s wellbeing while seeking medical attention if necessary.
A Partnership in Care
Preventing falls is not just about precautions—it’s about partnership. Whether you’re caring for a loved one at home or considering the safety of a care home environment, we believe that by working together we can reduce risks and create a supportive space where independence and wellbeing thrive.
At Buckland Care, our approach to fall prevention is woven into everything we do, from the design of our homes to the personalised care we provide. We’re here to ensure that every resident feels safe, supported, and able to enjoy life to the fullest. If you’re interested in learning more about our fall prevention measures or how we can support you or a loved one, don’t hesitate to get in touch.