Fall Prevention Caregivers

FALL PREVENTION &
FAMILY CAREGIVERS

We know that one of the biggest worries that family members face is the possibility that their loved one will have a serious fall, and no one will be there to help.

Falls are quite common among older people, and while most do not result in serious injury, each fall increases the odds that another will follow. There are many things seniors can do to reduce their chances of falling (see Fall Prevention Information for Seniors).

If you notice a loved one is falling more often or is having more serious falls, get them to a doctor as soon as possible. It is important to determine what is causing the falls, and that could be any number of things, from insufficient lighting in the home, to prescription drug interactions, to an underlying heart condition.

We also advise families to consider a “lifeline” type of medical alert service. When a person falls down, they push a button on a pendant or wristband which signals you, a neighbor and/or emergency personnel if necessary. Contact the Senior Information and Assistance program for a list of medical alert providers in your area.

STATISTICS on Falls

The LIVE STRONG & SAFE Fall Prevention Program

Fall Prevention LINKS