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Can Low Vision Increase Fall Risk?

Falls are one of the greatest risks that senior adults face. Each year throughout the United States, approximately 25 percent of the older adult population falls, and more than 27,000 die as a result of these falls. Identifying the particular risk factors that your senior has that increase the chances that they will suffer such a fall is an important step in protecting them from the falls and from the potentially devastating consequences that can happen as a result. One such risk factor is low vision.

Senior Care Northport NY – Can Low Vision Increase Fall Risk?

Decreased sensory acuity is one of the most common issues of aging. Structural changes, wear and tear, and illnesses can all diminish your parent’s senses, and this can impact their ability to interact with the world around them as well. When it comes to low vision, this can translate to a higher risk that they will suffer a fall, and potentially experience a severe injury.

Some ways that low vision can increase fall risk for your senior include:

  • Not being able to detect subtle changes in terrain, such as an elevated threshold or a sunken room,
  • Difficulty deciphering shadowy areas,
  • Not being able to identity individual steps, particularly if they are made from the same, material as the floor around them, making it more difficult for them to get up and down them successfully,
  • Not being able to detect obstacles that are in their path, such as a loose floor covering, small items that they might slip on, or icy ground that could cause them to slip.

 

If you have been looking for a way to enhance your aging parent’s quality of life and ensure that they are getting the support, care, and assistance that they need as they age in place, starting senior care for them might be the ideal option. A senior home care services provider can be with your parent on a fully customized schedule to ensure that they have full access to what they need to remain healthy, happy, comfortable, and engaged throughout their later years.

When it comes to keeping them safe, the highly personalized services of an senior home care services provider can be invaluable. From helping them to recognize and rectify challenges and obstacles in their home, to handling housekeeping tasks that might be challenging and difficult, to providing physical support and assistance, this care provider can help your parent stay active while also avoiding potential accidents and injuries.

Souce:  http://shellpoint.org/blog/2012/08/13/10-shocking-statistics-about-elderly-falls/

If you or an aging loved one are in need of Senior Care Services in Northport NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
Stephen Sternbach

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