Reducing Fall Risk During Rainy Spring Days

Spring may bring with it longer days and sunny skies, but it also tends to be a rainy season. Rainy days encourage the flowers and other plants that will be thriving by the end of the season and the summer months, but they can also pose dangers for your aging parents. Elderly adults are at increased risk of suffering falls and this can be even more likely on rainy days. As their family caregiver it is important to take steps to reduce this risk in order to protect your parent from the potentially devastating effects of falls.

Use these tips to reduce fall risk during rainy spring days:

• Make sure that your aging parent wears shoes that are as stable and slip-free as possible. Choose footwear that fits well and that will not slide off. Look for shoes with adequate ankle support and closed toes and heels, and with a sole that grips effectively
• If possible, replace handrails on your parent’s porch or other outdoor environments with one that is textured rather than smooth. Subtle texturing on the surface helps to make the railing less slippery and create a stronger, more confident grip when heading down the steps
• Ensure that your parent has proper support and assistance when walking on rainy days. Remember that surfaces that seem safe when dry can become very slippery when wet, even when it is just wetness from the bottom of shoes
• Make sure that there is a mat for your parent to step onto when getting into the house. If they do not have a mat, a towel will work as well. This helps to absorb the moisture from your parent’s shoes and provide grip when they first step inside onto potentially slick surfaces such as tile, linoleum, or polished wood

If your parent has been struggling with needs that you do not feel that you can meet efficiently, your own challenges and limitations have increased and your ability to care for your parent has changed, or you simply feel that they would benefit from a wider, more diversified care team, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting home care for them. An in-home senior care services provider can be with your parent to fill care gaps, manage care tasks that are too difficult for you or that are not comfortable for you or for your parent for you to handle, and help them to pursue a lifestyle that is as independent and fulfilling as possible as they age in place. This can ease your stress, support your own health and well-being, and help to keep your relationship with your senior meaningful and beneficial throughout their later years.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in New Brunswick Township, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care of New Brunswick today. Call (732) 607-8870.