Old age should be a time for serenity and well-being. However, one of the major concerns for seniors and their families is the risk of falls. Elderly falls are not just unfortunate events, but can lead to serious consequences, from broken bones to a loss of independence. With the right strategies, most falls can be effectively prevented.

This article is dedicated to preventing falls in seniors and offers practical and useful advice on how to improve their safety at home and contribute to ensuring they lead a serene and independent life. Furthermore, when falls cannot be avoided, specific devices exist that have been designed to mitigate the consequences and to reduce the risk of serious injury.

Why is preventing falls in seniors so crucial?

As the years pass, our bodies undergo natural physiological changes. A reduction in muscle strength, alterations in balance and coordination, impaired sight and the taking of certain drugs are all factors that can exponentially increase the risk of elderly falls.

In addition to the immediate physical trauma, a fall can also have a deep psychological impact. The fear of falling again can lead to a reduction in day-to-day activities, social isolation and a decline in the quality of life. That is why investing in preventing falls in seniors is not only a precaution, but a caring act and a cornerstone in maintaining their independence and well-being.

Home safety for the elderly: a protected environment for a better quality of life

We often fail to realise that the home, even though it is the most familiar space, can hide the greatest dangers. Most elderly falls actually occur precisely in their own home. Adopting simple precautions can turn the home into a safer place:

• Optimal lighting: ensure that all rooms are well-lit, focusing particular attention on corridors, stairs, the bathroom and the kitchen. Using automatic night lights or motion sensors can also prevent tripping in the dark.
• Removal of obstacles: loose rugs, mats, free electric cables and cumbersome furniture are common dangers. Attaching rugs to the floor with non-slip double-sided tape, and keeping areas free of obstacles, is a fundamental step in preventing falls in seniors.
• Fall-proof bathroom: install safety handles close to the toilet and inside the shower or bathtub. Use non-slip mats and, if necessary, a shower seat.
• Safe staircases: staircases should always have a handrail on both sides and be free of any objects. If possible, use stairs with non-slip strips on them.
• Non-slip surfaces: take care over polished or wet floors. Non-slip treatments or the use of appropriate footwear can reduce the risk.
• Functional organisation: keep frequently used objects close at hand, avoiding the need to reach up to high shelves or bend down too much, situations that can easily cause a loss of balance.

In addition to the surrounding environment: lifestyle and personal factors for prevention

Preventing falls in seniors does not end with adaptation of the home. Lifestyle and attention to personal factors also play a crucial role:

• Regular physical activity: targeted exercises to improve balance, muscle strength and flexibility (such as gentle yoga or specific senior fitness exercises) are extremely beneficial. It is always advisable to consult their own doctor or a physiotherapist for a personalised program.
• Periodic medical check-ups: regular eye tests and hearing tests are important, as impaired sight or hearing can influence balance and spatial awareness.
• Drug review: certain drugs can cause dizziness, drowsiness or drops in blood pressure, increasing the risk of falls. Periodically discuss the list of drugs taken and their potential side effects with the general practitioner.
• Appropriate footwear: wearing comfortable and properly fitting shoes, with a non-slip sole and no heel, is essential for walking securely.

When a fall cannot be avoided: protection of the hips

Unfortunately, elderly falls cannot always be avoided. In these cases, adopting protective measures, combined with prevention, can offer a useful support in guaranteeing that our loved ones lead a safer and more independent life.

FutureAge is an innovative airbag belt designed specifically for protection of the hips of an elderly person in the case of a fall. This device is the result of over 10 years of research and has been created to be simultaneously effective, comfortable and easy to use.

The purpose behind FutureAge is to allow people to grow old actively and independently, letting seniors live their lives with greater serenity and confidence, in the knowledge that a tangible and innovative support is always close at hand.

Contact our experts to learn more about FutureAge and how you can make a difference!