7 Ways to Help Prevent Falls in Your Home

 

No one likes to take a tumble. For seniors especially, falls are much more serious. Not only can they cause physical injury and bleeding, but they can also affect mental health and confidence or even cause post-traumatic stress and anxiety. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to significantly lower the risk of falls and make your home safer for your senior loved ones.

Our team of in-home caregivers in NJ has determined the 7 best ways to help prevent seniors from falling at home. 

#1 – Check medications. This is often a fall risk that’s overlooked, but it’s an extremely important one to check. Certain medications or combinations of medications can cause dizziness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and low blood sugar, all of which can increase the risk of a fall. Make a detailed list of your loved one’s medications (including over-the-counter drugs) and go over them with their doctor to make sure they’re the safest options. Also, make sure they’re being taken at the right time of day, in the right combination in order to avoid negative side effects. 

#2 – Remove area rugs where possible. Area rugs are beautiful, cozy additions to any home – but they’re also a potential fall risk. They create a change in the surface traction of the floor (for example, if you have a wool rug on a wooden floor) and can easily curl up to become a tripping hazard. If your loved one shuffles while they walk, has poor eyesight, uses a walking aid, or is unsteady on their feet, area rugs should be lifted up and packed away. 

#3 – Modify everyday activities. A few easy enhancements to the home can help keep your loved one both independent and safe from falls. Modifications like grab bars in the bathroom (for the bath, shower, and toilet), secure handrails on stairs, night lights by the stairs, and rearranging the kitchen for easy access to pantry essentials (rather than using a grab handle or step ladder), make all the difference.

#4 – Temperature precautions. Too much or too little heat affects how our bodies function and can make seniors dizzy and more likely to fall. In the summertime, make sure your loved one keeps hydrated (there should always be a full glass of water on the nightstand) and stays out of the sun between noon and 4pm when possible. You should also make sure your loved one’s air conditioning is at a cool but comfortable temperature. On the other hand, the thermostat shouldn’t be set any lower than 68 degrees Fahrenheit or higher come wintertime. 

#5 – Get rid of the clutter! A home that’s difficult to move around in is a home where a fall can easily happen. With that said, there’s no time like the present to help your loved one clear-out some unnecessary clutter. Having clear, wide pathways, no items on stairs or in passageways, space between furniture, and clear floors is essential. Beware that an unfamiliar layout can be a fall hazard too, so it’s important not to change the layout of their furniture too much unless it’s really in the way. If your loved one doesn’t want to sell or donate excess items, you can turn a spare room into a storage space that can be closed off from the rest of the house. 

#6 – Time to visit the tailor. Clothing can be a tripping hazard, whether it’s pants that are too long or shoes that have worn down. We recommend that every senior has comfortable shoes that have good grip and are easy to slip onto the foot or fasten with Velcro rather than laces. Existing clothes can be taken to a tailor to be hemmed and modified (especially if your loved one has lost weight). Or better yet, you can treat your loved one to a little shopping spree for new, better-fitting clothes! 

#7 – Get extra help at home. Having in-home caregivers is perhaps the best senior fall prevention tip. Ensuring that someone responsible is with your loved one and able to assist and monitor their movements throughout the day is invaluable. That’s where United Methodist HomeWorks comes in. Our in-home care agency provides seniors with expert care and companionship in New Jersey. 

The services provided by HomeWorks caregivers are customizable and follow the latest COVID-19 guidelines to ensure the health and safety of our clients at all times. Our experienced home health aides in NJ have a passion for working with seniors and keep up to date with the latest methods in caregiving. 

To find out more about our home-based care services or how to hire a home health aide in NJ, please visit our website. 

Originally posted: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/7-ways-to-help-prevent-falls-in-your-home/

Home Safety Tips for Older Adults

 

“I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” We’ve all seen that 80s commercial for LifeAlert, that is now a viral meme people poke fun at. However, LifeAlert did something right because you can say that infamous line to almost anyone and they immediately know it’s for a fall alert system. Despite their comedic claim to fame, senior falls happen more often than not and can lead to more serious issues down the road.

It’s so important for seniors to take home safety precautions to prevent unnecessary injury and ensure their independence for as long as possible. Taking the necessary steps towards home safety, combined with professional in-home care services, can help older adults age in place more successfully. Here are some essential home safety tips for seniors from our team of in-home caregivers in New Jersey.

#1 – Secure home doorways. The risk of stumbling and falling is high around doorways, as many homes have steps, raised flooring between rooms, or a raised section where the door has been fitted. We don’t usually notice these in our daily lives, but for seniors who are more likely to shuffle their feet or are unsteady on their feet, these can become dangerous tripping hazards. A safety or home proofing expert will be able to flatten troublesome doorways, install safety railings or add ramps where needed.

#2 – Install bathroom grab handles and bathing aides. The area that someone is most likely to fall and injure themselves in is the bathroom. Between the risk of wet, slippery tiles and the hard, angular surfaces of this space, a fall in the bathroom can be devastating for an older person. Luckily, they’re also one of the easiest rooms to secure. There is a huge range of bathroom safety equipment available for seniors, from sitting aides that allow seniors to shower easily, to installing grab bars near the tub, toilet and vanity. Another good idea is to remove all mats and clutter from this room to make it as open as possible for easy movement, as well as to reduce the risk of tripping.

#3 – Removing tripping hazards. Go through the house and look for tripping hazards that you can either move into storage or secure properly. This includes items like rugs (which can be removed or secured, especially if they are on tile or wooden floors), piles of books and magazines, awkwardly-placed furniture, and clutter. Pay special attention to the areas your loved one uses the most frequently – like the front door, stairs, bedroom, living room, and the kitchen. If they use a walker or walking aide, make sure there are clear pathways that are wide enough to easily accommodate them.

#4 – Create accessible seating. Another good idea is to splurge on some senior-friendly seating that’s comfortable and ergonomically supportive. This can be a set of comfortable living room chairs that are easy to get in and out of (a lot of furniture is very deep or low, which can be a problem), a sturdy bench or chair by the front door that you can rest groceries on or sit on to put on outdoor shoes, shower stools for easy bathing, and kitchen chairs that are the correct height and depth. At the same time, it’s also a good idea to clear out bulky furniture that isn’t being used, takes up unnecessary space and makes it difficult to use a walker.

#5 – Secure the yard. Understandably, a lot of focus goes into making a home safe for seniors, but the yard should also be secured. Especially if your loved one enjoys being outside, gardening or socializing. Make sure stairs are clear and have secure railings in place, and install a ramp if needed. Remove tripping hazards in the main pathways like roots, stepping stones or damaged paving. Make sure their mailbox is easily accessible and that snow and ice is cleared regularly. It’s also important that they have good quality outdoor shoes that are easy to put on and wear.

#6 – Invest in emergency technology. Everything you do to better secure your loved one’s home and prevent falls only reduces the risk of a fall occurring. Accidents can still happen — and when they do, you want help to arrive as quickly as possible. Fortunately, there are different emergency technology options available. Smart home technology, like Alexa, can be voice activated to alert emergency services. There are also wearable tech options like LifeAlert, Bay Alarm Medical, and Freedom Guardian that have features such as fall alerts, medication reminders, and GPS tracking to keep an eye on loved ones who may wander off. 

Stay safe at home with our NJ in-home caregivers 

United Methodist Communities HomeWorks was developed specifically to provide high-quality, home care for seniors that promote security and independence. Our in-home caregivers utilize the latest emergency technology and home safety methods to ensure your loved one is safe and sound at all times. They also provide senior care services that can be tailored and scaled to meet all the needs of your loved one. 

For more information on our senior home care services, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

Originally posted: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/home-safety-tips-for-older-adults/

4 Stress Management Tips for Dementia Caregivers

 

Many families initially choose to deal with a parent’s dementia in their home. Over time, it can become overwhelming to take care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Not to mention, too much stress can be harmful to both you and your senior loved one.

Our team at United Methodist Communities HomeWorks has put together a list of caregiver burnout signs and tips to manage stress successfully.

6 signs of caregiver stress you shouldn’t ignore

1. Feelings of anger and frustration – These negative feelings can be expressed towards your loved one, towards other people in your life or even inwardly towards yourself. Stress causes us to feel more impatient and more frustrated, and can make us lash out in ways we wouldn’t normally allow.
2. Social withdrawal – Caregivers under a lot of stress often withdraw from activities they usually love. If you find yourself not wanting to see friends or indulge in your favorite hobbies, then you may be suffering from significant caregiver stress.
3. Depression and anxiety – Caring for a loved one with a terminal condition is not easy, and feeling sad and anxious is normal sometimes. However, if you are constantly feeling down and you cannot see a way out, it’s important to seek professional help.
4. Exhaustion – If you are feeling constantly fatigued, as if you have no energy to get through the day or even get out of bed, then you are likely suffering from extreme burnout.
5. Weight gain or loss – When you spend more time caring for someone else and less time caring for yourself, it’s easy for your nutrition to suffer. If you’re finding it impossible to maintain a healthy, balanced diet, then you may be under too much strain as a caregiver.
6. Physical ailments – Another important symptom not to ignore is when your own health starts to suffer. Common ailments linked to caregiver burnout include frequent headaches and body pain. 

4 techniques for stress management for dementia caregivers

1. Use relaxation techniques – Try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily life. This can include meditation for 10 minutes a day, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation (consciously taking note of where tension is and relaxing each set of muscles), and positive visualization.
2. Introduce physical exercise – Physical exercise is one of the very best stress management tools available. It releases endorphins, reduces blood pressure, lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels, boosts your mood and benefits your overall health. Choose something you enjoy, and it won’t feel like work! 
3. Join local support groups – Being a family caregiver isn’t just stressful, it can be lonely too. Many family caregivers feel the weight of the world on their shoulders, and joining a support group can help alleviate this burden. You’re not alone in this, and support groups are a great resource for getting advice and sharing your experience with people who truly understand what you are going through.
4. Give yourself a break – There is more to life than being a family caregiver, but it’s easy for the role to take over. In the long run, however, this isn’t going to help you or your loved one! Taking a break, whether it’s to get your hair done, watch a movie, or to have quality time with your family is important.

It’s essential to your own wellbeing, and it will help you to be a better caregiver too. You could also look to hire a respite caregiver who has experience with older adults with dementia. Respite caregivers are trained to give your loved one the support and care they need, while you’re taking some much-deserved “me-time.”

In-home respite care services for seniors and family caregivers in NJ

UMC HomeWorks provides highly qualified at-home care services for older adults across the state of  New Jersey. In addition to assisting with daily tasks, errands and light housekeeping, our home health aides are fully trained in providing memory care and skilled nursing care in line with the latest COVID-19 guidelines. 

If you would like to find out more about our in-home respite or memory care services in NJ, contact us today and let one of our home health aides deliver the exceptional care and companionship that your loved one deserves. You can also visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/live-in-care-new-jersey/ 

Originally published: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/4-stress-management-tips-for-dementia-caregivers/

At-Home Exercises to Improve Senior Strength and Balance

 

It’s important to maintain balance and strength as we age and become more prone to falls. By performing the right exercises each day, seniors can improve balance and strength in order to maintain great posture and feel more confident when walking anywhere. 

United Methodist Communities HomeWorks has put a list together of senior exercises to improve overall strength and balance. Bonus: exercises can be performed easily at home!

#1 – Heel-to-toe walking

This exercise strengthens leg and hip muscles, helping older adults walk steady without falling. It’s also called the “tightrope walk” because it mimics the movements of balancing on a tightrope.

Steps:

• Place your right foot in front of your left foot, making sure the heel of your left foot touches the toes of your right. Then, put your weight on the heel of your right foot.
• Shift your weight to the toes of your right foot.
• Move your left foot out and in front of your right, shifting weight to the heel of your left foot.
• Shift your weight to the toes of your left foot.
• Repeat for 20 steps.

#2 – Single leg stance

This has to be one of the easiest balancing exercises. The more you do it, the longer you’ll be able to hold the pose. This exercise is also known as a “flamingo stand” because you’ll be copying their signature stance. 

Steps:

• Stand tall with your feet together with relaxed shoulders. Shoulder blades should be flat on your back.
• Shift weight onto your right foot, keeping legs straight and strong.
• Slowly lift your left foot, extending your leg forward and keeping it as straight as possible. Feel free to stand next to a wall or railing for additional balance if needed.
• To make this pose more challenging, reach forward (hinging at the hips) as if you are going to grab your extended foot with your hands.
• Hold for 15 seconds.
• Repeat with the other leg. Perform the exercise 3 times per leg, holding it for about 15 seconds each time.

#3 – Rock the boat

This is an easy balance exercise that anyone (regardless of their fitness level) can attempt. 

Steps:

• Start in a standing position with your feet facing forward, hip distance apart.
• Lift your arms out to either side, holding them slightly higher than shoulder height.
• Lift your left foot, bend your knee and bring your heel in towards your bottom.
• Hold for 30 seconds (or as long as you can).
• Repeat with your right foot, and then alternate 3 times for each side.

#4 – Wall push-ups

If traditional push-ups or knee-assisted push-ups are not in your wheelhouse, then wall push-ups are a great alternative. They take a lot of pressure off the joints, so they are much more comfortable to perform and add to your weekly workout routine.

Steps:

• Stand about an arm’s length away from a wall, facing it head-on. Choose a wall without windows, shelving or decorations.
• Leaning forward slightly, flatten the palms of your hands against the wall at the same height as your shoulders.
• Remember to keep your shoulders relaxed. It will also help to engage your core muscles around your stomach, bottom and pelvis.
• Keep feet flat against the floor (a yoga mat will help give you traction and stability).
• Slowly bend your arms to bring yourself close to the wall, then slowly push back to your starting position.
• Repeat 20 times.

Balancing tips for seniors at home 

It can be difficult to maintain balance during these exercises, but practice makes perfect! If you or a loved one are struggling, then these tips can help maintain stability while building strength:

• Focus your gaze on a fixed point straight ahead of you.
• Place your feet slightly wider than hip distance apart during standing exercises.
• Bend your knees slightly and work up to a standing position over time.
• Try to keep your weight distributed evenly. Most of us have a dominant side we tend to favor, so actively trying to equalize the way you carry your weight will help.
• Ask for help from a family member, friend or home health aide if you are worried about falling. Having somebody there will help make sure the exercises are being performed safely and correctly.

Exercise at home with a home health aide 

UMC HomeWorks  provides seniors with expert care and companionship in New Jersey. Whether your loved one needs assistance with preparing meals, getting dressed, going to appointments, or performing weekly workout routines at home, HomeWorks’ caregivers can be there for them.

HomeWorks can also be a safe care option for your senior parent during this on-going pandemic. Our COVID-19 protocols implemented and updated in accordance with the CDC to help ensure we are providing safe senior care. 

To find out more about our home-based senior care in New Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/senior-care-new-jersey/

Originally published: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/at-home-senior-exercises/

Veteran Aid and Benefits for Seniors

In honor of Veterans Day 2020, we’re not only thanking past members of our military for their service and sacrifices, we’re also focusing on a very important issue – veteran care for older adults. With over 12.5 million veterans aged 65 and older in the USA, it’s essential that we work to raise awareness of the medical care and financial assistance programs available to senior veterans, so that those who need a little extra help can access the benefits they deserve.

Here is some important information and resources from our home health aides in New Jersey that you can share with veterans and your local community.

What benefits are senior veterans entitled to collect?

If you are a U.S. military veteran, you likely qualify for VA health and financial assistance such as pensions, healthcare, disability compensation, insurance, home loans, education, and vocational training. There are many senior services you can apply these benefits to, including in-home care. Unique qualifying criteria apply to each benefit and you can get the full information online at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, but general eligibility requirements are as follows:

• If you are a war veteran with 90 days of active military duty on your record, with at least one day served during a period of war
• If you pass an Income and Asset Test through the VA. This test compares out-of-pocket medical expenses against your gross assets and income
• If you are a veteran who left military service with an honorable discharge

Veterans Aid and Attendance (A&A)

This is an important benefit that applies to veterans, as well as their dependent spouses in the event that either one requires assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). This includes having a home health aide to assist with bathing, grooming, dressing, and medication management, or living in an assisted living community. This benefit is paid in addition to the monthly military pension to help cover long-term care costs for assisted living or home health aides.

Aid for housebound veterans

Additional pension provisions can be supplied to veterans living with permanent disability who are unable to leave their home or immediate premises. Veterans and their dependent spouses may receive this provision or A&A, but cannot receive both simultaneously.

Benefits for veterans in rural areas

With almost a quarter of veterans living in rural areas, where incomes are lower and limited access to VA centers, gaining access to veteran benefits is more difficult. However, there are programs available specifically for rural veterans, including the Veterans Choice Program (VCP). This is part of the Veterans Access, Choice and Accountability Act (2014) and applies to veterans who have to receive healthcare from a community provider because the VA medical facility is over 40 miles away; or they have to use a train, ferry or aircraft to access the facility; or are in a position of having to wait 30 days or more for a VA appointment. You can set up an appointment for these benefits here.

Agent Orange compensation

Veterans who have health issues due to exposure to Agent Orange (a chemical herbicide used by the U.S. military in Korea and Vietnam) may be eligible for compensation. In order to be eligible, you must have an illness that is caused by exposure to this herbicide and you must have served in a location that exposed you to the herbicide. These illnesses include cancers like Hodgkin’s Disease, chronic B-cell leukemia, prostate cancer, and respiratory cancers, amongst others. You can see the full list of illnesses and information on making a claim for compensation online on the V.A. Agent Orange website.

UMC HomeWorks Provides In-Home Care for Veterans 

At United Methodist Communities, we provide elderly veterans care in New Jersey through tailored home care provided by experienced, compassionate home health aides who have a passion for working with seniors. To find out more about our home-based care services, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-health-aide-services/ 

Originally posted: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/veteran-aid-and-benefits-for-seniors/

5 Essential Go-Bag Items for In-Home Senior Caregivers

Being a caregiver for a senior loved one often means facing the same routine challenges each day, like preparing meals, getting to and from shops or appointments, dressing and bathing. But caregivers also must plan ahead and be ready to act quickly in the event of an emergency — that’s where your go-bag comes in. Here are some insights from our in home senior care team in NJ.

Pack your go-bag today 

As a caregiver, you know that a lot of preparation, planning and teamwork is needed to care for your loved one. When an emergency happens, there’s not a lot of time to think — only time to act.
Having a go-bag ready in advance keeps you prepared and ensure you both have the essentials you need without causing additional anxiety or confusion for your loved one.

What should be in my senior go-bag? 

While the final items are up to you, our team has the following suggestions:

1. Patient fact sheet. A brief document for healthcare professionals so they have the basic information needed to manage your loved one’s treatment. Include information like his or her full legal name (to match insurance documents), current health conditions and medications, allergy information, contact information of his/her healthcare providers, special dietary considerations, any communication issues or behavioral issues, and religion. Be sure to also include your own contact details.
2. Copies of important documents. Including Medicare, Medicaid and other insurance cards; healthcare proxy; Living Will; Do Not Resuscitate order (DNR); etc.
3. Basic toiletries and supplies. Spare set of eyeglasses, denture storage and cleaning supplies, a change of clothing and/or pajamas, hand lotion, hair brush, facecloth, small bag for jewelry or valuables, reading material, and any comfort items.
4. Snacks and water. A few of your loved one’s favorite snacks and some bottled water often come in handy and help keep blood sugar stable and prevent dehydration.
5. Items for you. Keep a few crossword puzzles, a novel or a few magazines in your go-bag, as well as some healthy snacks and water, for the wait. It’s also a good idea to keep a spare phone charger in your bag so you can stay in contact easily.

In-home senior care from trained and experienced home health aides in NJ 

At United Methodist Communities in New Jersey, we understand the challenges of providing expert medical care and companionship to seniors while encouraging a full and independent life, which is why we’ve developed our HomeWorks program.

Trained and highly experienced staff assist seniors and their families through this comprehensive senior in-home care program. Each care plan is designed around the client’s exact needs, filling in with necessary assistance while allowing your loved one to remain in the comfort of their home.
For more information on our seniors in-home care services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-essential-go-bag-items-home-senior-caregivers/

5 New Year’s Resolutions for Caregivers!

2018 is here and January is the perfect time to evaluate our lives, address challenges and move forward with positivity. For caregivers, this is an especially important time, so our in-home respite care services team has put some New Year’s resolutions together just for you:

1. Ask for help when it’s needed. No matter how prepared, life gets in the way and throws all kinds of curveballs in our direction. Whatever the challenge, as a caregiver it isn’t your job to face it alone. Whether you need a family member to step in when you have a commitment to meet for your child or career, or you need a skilled nurse to deliver respite care services to help your loved one heal, finding the right help when you need it is an important part of being a great caregiver.
2. Take time for yourself. Despite meeting the challengers of caregiving, even the best caregivers can find themselves burning out if they don’t take some time off. This doesn’t mean time off for other commitments — it means time off for just you. It will leave you feeling de-stressed, relaxed and refreshed, so upon your return, you can deliver the best quality of care.
3. Look after your health and happiness. Staying healthy and putting your wellbeing first might sound selfish, but the reality is that it’s best for everyone – especially you. Caregivers need to be mentally and physically healthy to take on this demanding position, so it’s important not to neglect yourself.
4. Don’t take on everything. Even if you are the primary caregiver for a loved one, it’s important that other family members pitch in and do their share. Caregiving is best when it’s done by a team! This can be as simple as doing the grocery shopping, fixing things around the house, providing transportation, or even companionship. If family members live too far away, financial contributions can be a big help, and you could hire home health aide services to help carry out the responsibilities.
5. Join a support group. Only people in similar positions can understand what it’s like to be a caregiver. They can offer invaluable support when you are going through a difficult time or are up against new challenges. It’s also a great way to share your expertise with others who are new to family caregiving, and help make their journey a little smoother.

In-home respite care services – Whenever you need a compassionate helping hand 

Whether you need residential in home respite care in NJ or need someone qualified and experienced to assist your loved one on a more permanent basis, we are here to help through our HomeWorks program. Our staff are fully certified in New Jersey and have extensive senior care training and experience, so please feel free to ask for formal certification and references.

For more information on our home care aide services in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-new-years-resolutions-caregivers/

Reducing Fall Risk Among Older Adults Living at Home

Falls are the number one risk for seniors and account for the clear majority of injuries, broken bones, and hospital stays they experience. In fact, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries for Americans over age 65, which makes fall prevention essential.

Home Health Aides Advise You to Be Aware of What Causes Falls

Older adults are vulnerable to falls for many reasons and knowing what may contribute to a fall can help prevent it. Some of the most common reasons include poor vision, dizziness, poor balance, chronic health conditions, and even the home itself.

Steps Every Senior Caregiver Should Take to Help Prevent Falls: 

Step one. Talk to your loved one’s doctor. Seniors often take a variety of medications as well as self-medicating with over-the-counter drugs. Ask the doctor to fully evaluate your loved one’s medications, as well as how they are taking them in order to eliminate any conflicts that may lead to dizziness, sleepiness, low blood pressure or anything else that could cause a fall. This is also a good time to get a record of previous falls, near-falls and fall-related injuries to see if there is a specific issue or an increase in frequency.

Step two. Start an age and health-appropriate exercise routine. Balance, reflexes and strength diminish as we age, but that doesn’t mean anyone should sit in a chair all day. Using targeted exercise regimes on a regular basis, seniors can build up core muscles and strength that is critical to preventing falls and injuries. Be sure to use a physical therapist or trainer who is experienced with older adults and understands your loved one’s health.

Step three. Evaluate your loved one’s environment. Poor lighting, clutter, rugs that shift, slippery tiles, steps, and bathrooms without grab rails significantly contribute to falls. Hallways and rooms should be clear and easy to navigate; install grab bars in the bathroom, and remove rugs. Make sure lighting is bright and easy to access in every room — especially between the bathroom and bedroom. Simple battery-operated press lights work well!

Step four. Your loved one’s wardrobe may pose hazards. Shoes should fit well and have good grip; trousers and skirts shouldn’t be too long. Substitute a sturdy pair of slippers for wearing socks around the home.

Assistance for Seniors and Their Loved Ones Through In-Home Care for the Elderly 

United Methodist Communities strives to offer the very best quality senior independent home care options in New Jersey through HomeWorks. This program assists the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and provides them, their families and caregivers personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence. In addition to daily homecare, we also offer pastoral care for spiritual and emotional support in the home.

For more information on our senior home care services or to find a qualified home health aide in New Jersey, please contact us today and visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org.

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/reducing-fall-risk-among-older-adults-living-home/