Life always carries risk. This is especially true for traveling and traveling when 55+ is riskier still. Yet, rather than being overwhelmed by risk, it must be managed so we don't fear exploring the world. In this post, we'll talk about three major types of risks older adults face when traveling and how to manage them.
Watching a loved one wander can be a frightening and stressful experience, especially if they have dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or another cognitive impairment. Wandering can put individuals at risk of getting lost or injured and can also create significant anxiety and worry for their caregivers. Fortunately, there are several strategies and techniques that can be used to help prevent wandering and keep individuals safe. In this post, we will share some tips and ideas for helping a loved one who wanders. These strategies range from environmental modifications to communication techniques and can be tailored to your loved one's individual needs and preferences. By using these tips and ideas, you can help reduce the risk of wandering behavior and increase the safety and well-being of your loved one.
Winter weather can be harsh and unforgiving, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable to the cold. As the temperatures continue to drop, it's essential to take extra precautions to stay safe and warm. This blog post will provide tips and strategies to keep safe during extremely cold weather. From dressing in layers and staying hydrated to checking in with loved ones and seeking out warm places, these tips will help you remain safe and comfortable during the coldest days of the year.
Cold weather can lead to a number of health issues, including hypothermia, frostbite, and dehydration, so it's crucial to take care of yourself and stay vigilant about your health and safety. By following these tips, you can stay safe and warm on days of extreme cold and enjoy the winter season.
It's no secret that older adults are at a higher risk for falls. In fact, falls are one of the leading causes of injury in adults over 65. Falling can have painful consequences, both physically and emotionally. If you're an older adult, it's important to take steps to prevent falls and protect yourself from potential injuries. In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of falling and offer some tips for staying safe.
The headline says it all: "Ivana Trump, ex-wife of former President Trump, died from fall: Medical examiner". Found at the bottom of a set of stairs, the 73-year-old victim's cause of death was ruled by the medical examiner determined the cause of death was "blunt impact injuries to the torso sustained as the result of a fall."
The risk of falls for older adults is significant. The Centers for Disease Control reported that in 2018, 35.6 million falls occurred among those 65 and older. Of these, 8.4 million resulted in injuries, and about 32,000 people died from falls.
Hip fractures are a common injury resulting from older adult falls. Over 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling. Women represent about 75% of all hip fractures.
On the positive side, however, those 65 and older can take steps to reduce the risk of falls. Most advice about preventing falls focuses on environmental changes. That's the "outer game." For example, making changes to one's home. Just as important, however, is the "inner game" of fall prevention.
Advances in technology are one of the best things to happen in the 21st century, as it allows us to connect and keep in touch with our loved ones. In addition, it makes it possible to help take care of family members even if you are not close to them. The key is to find the right mobile application that will help you take care of the older adults in your life.
So, if you have elderly members in your family, you are in the right place. Here are the top apps you can download to help improve their lives and safety.
According to recent studies, 80% of older adults' fall injuries at home occur in the bathroom. Because of this, it is crucial to take the proper precautions and create a safe environment for seniors in the home. An important decision for the bathroom is to choose between a walk-in tub and a walk-in shower.
If you are also struggling to choose between the two, you are in the right place! Here are the pros and cons of each to help you make the right decision.
Whether it's for convenience, comfort, affordability, or safety, there are many reasons you may decide that working out at home is right for you. Exercising at home can be an excellent option as many people find that it helps them work out more often and more comfortably.
With that, while working out at home can be safer than going to the gym (more hygienic, less likely to be injured by others, fewer distractions, etc.), it presents a unique set of risks and challenges you might not have to think about as much at a gym or fitness center. So, the next time you decide to stay at home to exercise, consider the following tips for a successful workout!
Maintaining balance becomes increasingly crucial as we age due to the heightened risk of balance loss and falls. Shockingly, according to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 older adults will experience a fall each year, which not only result in physical injuries but also negatively impact overall well-being and independence. The decline in balance is influenced by numerous factors, such as age-related changes in muscle strength, sensory perception, and coordination, as well as underlying health conditions and medications.
By gaining insight into the factors, you can adopt healthier habits, engage in targeted exercises, and make environmental modifications that enhance your ability to maintain balance effectively. This expanded understanding and proactive approach will empower you to develop improved balance skills, reduce the risk of falls, and safeguard your physical and mental well-being as you age.
Falls, with their potential to cause traumatic injuries, are a serious concern that can have devastating consequences. Among the various hazards that pose a risk to older adults, stairs stand out as particularly treacherous. In fact, a study conducted in the United States has revealed alarming statistics: on average, one million emergency room visits annually are attributed to accidents that occur on staircases, resulting in approximately 12,000 deaths each year.
Considering the potential dangers associated with stairs, it becomes crucial for individuals with elderly loved ones residing in houses equipped with staircases to take proactive measures to ensure their safety. By implementing preventive measures and adopting helpful strategies, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of trips or falls on stairs, enabling older adults to maintain their independence and live safely. In the following sections, we will delve into a range of practical tips designed to make stairs safer for older adults, helping you to create a secure environment for your loved one.