Remaining Upright.

• Author: Gaudiosi, Alisa
• Position: Preventing slips and falls for the elderly

ONE IN FOUR seniors suffers a fall each year and nearly half of people age 65 or older sustaining a fall do not resume independent living. Homecare specialists at Connecticut's Assisted Living Services have seen firsthand the threats to personal safety that the elderly encounter on a daily basis in their own homes. As September is National Falls Prevention Month, ALS is sharing ways to create a safe environment and utilize smart home and personal technology.

"The unfortunate reality is that some of our clients are hospitalized after a moderate to severe injury and are unable to return home," says Mario D'Aquila, COO of Assisted Living Services. D'Aquila notes that an experienced senior home care specialist uses a quality assurance checklist to evaluate the living situation and identify areas of weakness, then makes recommendations, such as reducing clutter and installing hand rails, to lower the risk of falls. Specific technological devices also may be recommended after completion of the evaluation.

D'Aquila addresses the top causes of falls and how to prevent them:

* Slips and trips can be prevented by wearing proper footwear; wiping up spills and cleaning excess messes; removing cords and hazards like scatter rugs; providing adequate lighting at night; and using bathroom safety devices properly.

* Physical inactivity actually can lead to more falls. Participate in exercise or activities that improve balance.

* Medications may have side effects that can lead to falls. Blood pressure meds, sedatives, diuretics, anti-depressants, and pain medications need to be discussed with a doctor, who may be able to make adjustments or provide advice to reduce symptoms contributing to a fall.

* Poor vision can be prevented by getting an eye exam and avoiding the use of multifocal glasses when ambulating.

* Improper use of assistive equipment--such as canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and others--can be dangerous. Make sure the person is trained to properly and safely use equipment by their doctor or medical equipment specialist.

"Some independent seniors avoid using a cane or other physical equipment in public out of embarrassment, so we encourage the use of discreet wearable devices to provide peace of mind and a quick response in...