- Because elderly people have a greater risk of having health problems, it is best to first consult with their primary care physicians and other health professionals to get a clear picture of their overall health. Ask about medications (and any potential interactions and side-effects), and be sure to document any over the counter medications, supplements, or vitamins they are using to ensure that no dangerous interactions could occur. The article "Gather Information to Start Your Caregiving Journey" on the Aging-Parents-and-Elder-Care.com website suggests that you also get the results and dates of all medical tests along with information about current and previous medical conditions. This way, you can have a better idea of what to expect and also be better able to prevent potential injury. For example, if you know that your elderly loved one has diabetes, monitoring their glucose levels and encouraging them to perform diabetic-safe exercises can help prevent the development of circulatory problems and limb loss.
- According to the article "Preventing Falls in the Elderly" by K.R. Tremblay Jr. and C.E. Barber, approximately 9,500 elderly people die from fall-related injuries and complications each year. What's more startling is that the majority of factors that contribute to falls are preventable. For this reason, you want to make sure you are knowledgeable about falls and fall prevention. First, make sure that your home is free of clutter, hazards, and other objects that your loved one could trip over. Make sure that wires and cords are securely positioned away from pathways and high-traffic areas in the home. Add rails and other support structures in the bathroom and near beds if your elderly loved one has trouble standing and sitting. Visit the links provided in the "resources" section for more specific information about fall prevention.
- According to the aforementioned article by Tremblay Jr. and Barber, exercise reduces the risks of falls and other physical injuries as a great majority of falls occur due to muscle weakness, lack of bone mass, and decreased flexibility. Consult a physical therapist or doctor on the exercises that are safe for your loved one to perform, and make sure that those exercises are practiced for at least fifteen minutes every other day. Not only does exercise help prevent physical injury, it also increases confidence and self-esteem, and if done with other seniors, can help maintain a social life and independence.
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