Falls are the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older. That accounts for nearly 1 in 4 older adults who report falling each year. The impact that these falls have on a person’s physical and emotional well-being can be life-changing. But there are things families can do to help prevent falls for older adults who are aging in place.

Being proactive can help. One way to accomplish this is to include the older adult’s primary care physician in a discussion about fall risk. A doctor can look at their chances of falling, including underlying medical conditions, medications that may increase the opportunity for falls, their vision and footwear.  All of these factors can contribute to a person’s chances of falling.  Evaluating their balance and strength capacity as well as their blood pressure, can pinpoint risk factors.

If these risk factors aren’t properly managed, the opportunity for a fall is possible. We understand how important it is to respond to these risk factors, working with older adults and their doctors to identify reasons behind a fall, considering all the contributing factors.

We’re proud to offer Gaitway, our comprehensive approach to fall risk management. This program minimizes the risk of falls for older adults who are living at home, empowering them to understand fall risk as well as giving them the tools to stay safe and maintain their independence. Gaitway educates caregivers on how to best assist older adults, using a home safety evaluation conducted by a trained professional who scans their environment for potential hazards like slippery rugs, inadequate lighting and loose carpeting.

We know the worry that older adults and their families share when it comes to falling. That’s why we take fall risk so seriously. If you have concerns about the safety of a loved one who is living alone, please reach out today and let’s talk about Gaitway.

Learn more about Gaitway