How Home Care Services Can Help Reduce Your Fall Risk

Did you know that at least one-third of people aged 65 and over experience a fall each year? While not all falls result in injury, they can lead to fractures, dislocations, sprains, and even a loss of confidence that limits daily activities. Several factors contribute to fall risk, including:

  • Physical changes, such as poor eyesight, slower reaction times, cognitive decline, and reduced sensation or numbness in the lower limbs.
  • Muscle weakness and joint stiffness, which can affect balance and mobility.
  • New or worsening health conditions.
  • Medication side effects—especially if you take five or more medications.
  • Balance and coordination issues that cause unsteadiness.
  • Lack of physical activity, leading to reduced strength and stability.
  • Poor nutrition and dehydration.
  • Low calcium levels, which can increase the risk of fractures if you do fall.
  • Foot pain or wearing unsafe shoes.
  • Trip and slip hazards, such as loose rugs, wet or uneven surfaces, and poor lighting at home or outdoors.
  • Temporary health setbacks, such as the flu, an infection, or recovery from surgery or a hospital stay.

The good news? Many falls can be prevented—especially with the right support.

Here are a few ways home care services can help you reduce your risk of having a fall and keep you active and independent for longer.

Fixing Home Hazards

A clean, easy-to-navigate house is a safer house! And in the quest for fall-free living, your home care provider can help you reduce hazards and make your home as easy to navigate as possible. This could include cleaning cluttered spaces, changing lightbulbs to increase visibility, organising furniture, or securing loose rugs. They can even take you shopping for safe-home staples like non-slip maps or sensor lights! Some home care providers can even assist with installing grab bars and mobility devices, for extra peace of mind.

Maintaining Mobility

Maintaining mobility and moving safely is another important ingredient in reducing fall risk. Home care services can keep you active and mobile by assisting with walking, standing, and moving around your home. This might involve a support worker assisting you as you go about your day or helping you practice safe techniques for getting up from a chair or bed. Need some support with your mobility outside of your home? Your home care provider may help there, too. They can assist you in and out of a vehicle and support you while you attend appointments, go shopping, or visit friends.

Wear Supportive Footwear

Socks and loose slippers may feel comfortable, but they can increase the risk of slipping. One simple way to help prevent falls at home is by wearing well-fitted shoes.

Look for shoes that:

  • Are comfortable and fit securely.
  • Have a wide toe area to prevent pressure on your feet.
  • Feature low or no heels for better stability.
  • Have slip-resistant soles to reduce the risk of slipping.

If shoes feel uncomfortable, nonslip socks with grip soles can be a safer alternative. Need help finding the right pair? Your home care provider can accompany you on a shopping trip to ensure you choose shoes that offer both comfort and support.

Home Care Support with Daily Living

So many of our daily tasks include bending, balancing, or stretching. And while practising these movements in a controlled way can support good health, excessive movement can be risky if you live with lower mobility. Instead, consider asking for some assistance. Depending on your needs, your home care provider can assist with everyday chores like gardening, cleaning, cooking, and more. With the day-to-day essentials sorted, you won’t need to stretch, bend, or carry heavy items as often. In other words, you’ll reduce your fall risk and have more time to focus on the things you enjoy, easy!

Could you use some help keeping your home clean and free of clutter? Would you like assistance getting to or from appointments? We’re here! Simply Helping provides a range of flexible home care services to keep you happy and healthy. Click here to learn more about our services, and contact us today.