Benjamin Franklin certainly had it right: An ounce of prevention is really worth a pound of cure. When it comes to discovering and addressing mobility issues in older adults, fall prevention is a must. Falls in older adults result in 3 million emergency room visits, 300,000 hip fractures, and 32,000 deaths every year, according to research by the CDC.
Get ahead of a tragedy by keeping an eye out for these warning signs of increasing mobility issues in older adults:
- Skipping physical activity. A red flag is a senior who previously participated in some amount of exercise, but now is choosing a much more sedentary lifestyle. Weakness or exhaustion can cause issues with mobility.
- Struggling to sit or stand. Notice whether or not the older adult finds it difficult to stand up from a seated position or to sit back down. Do they require something to hold onto for support?
- Steering clear of stairs. An older adult who appears to be getting around just fine but is avoiding going up or down stairs could be fearful of falling due to mobility changes.
- Experiencing dizziness. Dizziness and problems with balance can develop from a variety of contributing factors that ultimately cause problems with mobility. It is important to learn why these problems are taking place and to address them right away.
One simple and effective method to gauge mobility and fall risk in older adults is the TUG (Timed Up and Go) test. The test should be carried out on a consistent basis. Here is all it will require:
- Place a sturdy chair up against the wall.
- Mark a distance of ten feet from the wall.
- Have your loved one sit in the chair.
- When you tell them to go, start a timer, and have the person stand, walk towards the ten foot mark, turn around, come back, and sit down again.
Make sure to stand nearby as the senior performs the test to provide support if required. Track the outcome over a period of time and share with the person’s doctor for guidance. Find additional information about the test in addition to a downloadable one-page evaluation sheet here.
In the event that you pick up on any of these signs, it is time for you to have a frank conversation with the senior. Let the person know you are concerned, and schedule an appointment for a check-up with the doctor. The implementation of some simple mobility aids can make an enormous amount of improvement in maintaining safety and independence.
Contact Independence-4-Seniors Home Care for additional fall prevention tips for older adults and to find out about the many ways we can help improve quality of life for an older adult you love. Call us at (603) 323-4665 to schedule a free home assessment and to learn more about our home care services in Hinsdale and the surrounding areas.