Did you know that Wisconsin currently ranks among the highest in the nation for fall-related deaths among older adults?
It is a sobering statistic, but it highlights a critical reality for our community. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, falls account for approximately 21% of all EMS ambulance runs in our state. The vast majority of these incidents happen not on icy sidewalks, but right inside the home—specifically, 61% occur in private residences.
At Professional Home Care Services, Inc. (PHCS), we believe that falls are not an inevitable part of aging. They are often the result of identifiable hazards and health changes that can be managed. By combining home safety modifications with the support of our compassionate Personal Care Workers (PCWs), families in Milwaukee can significantly reduce these risks and keep their loved ones independent.
Why Do Falls Happen? The “Silent” Factors
A fall is rarely caused by just one thing. It is usually a combination of physical changes and environmental traps. Understanding the “why” is the first step toward prevention.
1. Physical and Medical Factors
- Muscle Weakness: Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) reduces leg strength, making it harder to recover from a minor stumble.
- Medication Side Effects: Many seniors take four or more prescriptions daily. Interactions between medications for blood pressure, heart conditions, or sleep can cause sudden dizziness (orthostatic hypotension) or confusion.
- Vision and Hearing Loss: If you cannot see a tripping hazard or hear an approaching pet/person, your balance is compromised.
- Chronic Conditions: Arthritis, diabetes (which can cause foot numbness/neuropathy), and Parkinson’s disease all increase instability.
2. Environmental Hazards in Milwaukee Homes
Many of Milwaukee’s charming, historic homes feature architectural details that can pose risks for seniors, such as:
- Steep, narrow staircases.
- High-sided vintage bathtubs.
- Uneven thresholds between rooms.
- Polished hardwood floors that can be slippery with socks.
A Room-by-Room Safety Checklist
You can lower the risk of falls immediately by making simple, cost-effective changes to the home environment.
The Living Areas
- Clear the Path: Remove all throw rugs (or secure them with double-sided tape) and keep electrical cords tucked behind furniture.
- Lighting Matters: As we age, our eyes need more light to see contrast. Increase the wattage in your lamps and install automatic nightlights in hallways.
- The “Clutter” Rule: Keep walkways clear of newspapers, boxes, and low coffee tables that are easy to bump into.
The Bathroom (The Danger Zone)
- Install Grab Bars: Do not rely on towel racks—they cannot support a person’s weight. Professional grab bars should be installed near the toilet and inside the shower.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip mats inside the tub and on the floor immediately outside it.
- Shower Chairs: A simple shower bench allows seniors to bathe without the fatigue of standing on a slippery surface.
The Kitchen
- Accessible Storage: Move frequently used items (plates, glasses, spices) to lower shelves to avoid the need for step stools.
- Clean Spills Immediately: A few drops of water on a kitchen floor can be as slippery as ice.
How Professional Home Care Services Can Make a Difference
While home modifications are essential, human support is the most effective fall prevention strategy. This is where Professional Home Care Services, Inc. excels. Our team provides personal care services in Milwaukee that act as a safety net for your loved ones.
Here is how our Personal Care Workers (PCWs) actively prevent falls:
1. Mobility and Ambulation Assistance
Our PCWs are trained in safe transfer techniques. Whether it is helping a client stand up from a recliner, move from the bed to a wheelchair, or walk to the dining room, we provide the physical stability they need. We are also skilled in using gait belts to support clients who are unsteady on their feet.
2. The “Second Set of Eyes”
Family members cannot be there 24/7. Our caregivers serve as vigilant observers. If a client seems unusually dizzy, is squinting more than usual, or is complaining of new pain, our PCWs document these changes and report them. This early warning system allows families and doctors to intervene before a fall happens.
3. Medication Reminders
Ensuring that medication is taken at the right time and with food (if required) can prevent the lightheadedness and confusion that often precipitate a fall.
4. Safe Personal Hygiene
The bathroom is where the highest percentage of home accidents occur. Having a PCW assist with bathing, grooming, and dressing removes the struggle and danger of these daily tasks, allowing the senior to maintain their dignity safely.
Real-Life Success Stories
- Mrs. Davis: Suffering from arthritis, she struggled to get out of bed. Her PHCS caregiver now assists with her morning routine, ensuring she transitions safely from lying down to standing up, preventing morning dizziness.
- Mr. Johnson: After starting a new blood pressure medication, he experienced dizzy spells. His caregiver now prepares his lunch and stays by his side in the kitchen, ensuring he doesn’t have to carry hot food while feeling unsteady.
- Ms. Rodriguez: Living with low vision, she found navigating her hallway at night terrifying. Her caregiver helped reorganize her bedroom layout and clear the path to the bathroom, ensuring she can move safely even in low light.
Local Resources for Milwaukee Families
We encourage you to explore these trusted resources for more information on fall prevention:
- Milwaukee County Falls Prevention Coalition: A local group dedicated to reducing falls through education and community programs.
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services: Offers detailed statistics and the “Stepping On” workshop information.
- CDC – Older Adult Fall Prevention: Excellent fact sheets and checklists for families.
Take the Next Step for Safety
Falls do not have to be a normal part of aging. With the right environment and the right support, your loved one can remain safe, happy, and independent at home.
Are you concerned about a loved one’s safety at home? Contact Professional Home Care Services, Inc. today. We can discuss a personalized care plan that prioritizes safety and peace of mind.
Phone: (414) 541-6010 Website: www.phcsonline.com
Are you a compassionate individual looking to make a difference? We are hiring dedicated Personal Care Workers to join our Milwaukee team. Apply Today!
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