Eight Ways to Keep Our Elders Safe from a Brain Injury

Living independently as a senior is a risky endeavor, but many feel that the chances of suffering a serious brain injury is worth living out the remainder of their lives on their own terms. Many families don’t want their grandparents put into nursing homes, which is completely warranted considering the constant barrage of news pertaining to elder abuse, but they are burdened with the knowledge that their family member could fall victim to their aging body. If this is your situation, you may have more protective power than you think; informing your loved one of common hazards and how to avoid them could save their lives.

In the U.S., 1.4 million people sustain a serious head injury every year. Seniors are particularly susceptible, which explains why adults over 75-years-old have the highest rates of TBI-related hospitalizations and deaths than any other group. With proper precautions, some of these falls and head injuries could have been avoided.

Prevention

Physical exercise to increase overall strength. Before engaging in any exercise program, a person should consult a physician
Proper footwear. Shoes should provide good support, fit well, and have non-slip soles. Seniors should also avoid walking around in socks and slippers.
Grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom.
Eliminate clutter that could be a tripping hazard.
Have proper lighting.
Keep frequently-used items within easy reach.
Check vision frequently
Review medications

This may seem like common sense, but the number of people that suffer brain trauma as a result of, what some would consider, a lack of common sense is baffling. Being able to identify and eliminate hazards is your first step towards safety; the following are common factors that contribute to a heightened risk of falling.

Medication. Many seniors take medications that make them dizzy or drowsy. Medications that impair balance and weaken muscles are a common cause of brain trauma.
Other medical conditions. Conditions like Parkinson’s disease and osteoarthritis may make seniors particularly vulnerable to falls.
Visual Impairments. Weakening eyesight can prevent seniors from seeing obstacles in their path.
Lack of Exercise. In addition to helping people build muscles, exercise helps improve balance.

Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers

If you or a loved one has suffered a serious head injury, call a Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys California traumatic brain injury attorney for a free professional evaluation of your case by attorneys who have represented over 6,000 clients since 1978. You will experience award winning representation and outstanding personal service by a friendly law firm in a comfortable environment.

Call 800-259-6373. The call is free. The advice may be priceless.

Maria Tadd says:

January 21, 2011 at 10:18 am

The vast majority of seniors want to age at home and therefore helping them age well is vitally important. In addition to the suggestions offered in the article, seniors should be getting the proper nutrients in order to help maintain muscle mass and bone integrity. In my book, Happiness Is Growing Old at Home, I cover a lot of topics including which exercises can help prevent falls as well as new devices that detect falls and a host of other valuable pieces of information. You can learn more at my web site, http://www.agingathome.info.