Four Ways to Reduce Fall Risk in the Most Vulnerable Hours
It has become critical for senior care providers to learn why falls are happening among their residents and how to prevent them.
- Data shows that fall risk peaks between 6-9 pm and again from 3-6 am, when senior care staffing is reduced.
- What’s more, 50 percent of residents who fall overnight will have another overnight fall.
- These statistics become even more critical as they are applied to those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia—as the sun goes down, these residents are at even greater risk for falls as they experience sundowning, increased restlessness, anxiety, and disorientation—all of which can become more intense as the diseases progress.
A recent article in Provider presents four ways senior care executives, nursing staff, and caregivers, can reduce fall risk for residents during the most vulnerable hours.
- Incorporate technology to ease the burden on residents, families, and communities.
- Know individual dementia behavior expressions and how they affect sleep.
- Consider the sleep environment and potential interventions.
- Be aware of disruptions to circadian rhythm.
Read more: Four Ways to Reduce Fall Risk in the Most Vulnerable Hours (providermagazine.com, January 11, 2023)