The majority of older adults are interested in living in their own homes for as long as possible, but this can often be a source of anxiety and argument among family caregivers. It’s natural to worry about a loved one’s safety, and it may be best to try and encourage the right precautions to help with different issues.
Falls should be a major concern for any senior, because these events can lead to limited mobility and sometimes even run the risk of sending older adults to nursing homes prematurely. Grace Rowan, a registered nurse, makes education about falls a priority. She shares information with participants that can help them lead safer, healthier lives.
“What we’ve done is we’ve recalled these people and checked what they’ve done at home,” she told The Mineola Patch. “The biggest thing with seniors is to encourage them to do exercise. We get a little complacent with that, so we’ve expanded the program and now we do offer some exercises for seniors free of charge at Winthrop and also in the community.”
Hiring non skilled assistants may help reduce a senior’s fall risk as well, because an aide can perform tasks that may be difficult or dangerous for older adults, whether that means mowing the lawn, preparing food or bathing.