Fall Risk Prevention Among Senior Citizens

Mobility products often used for fall prevention are not always designed for fall prevention, according to information posted at http://www.invisiblecaregiver.com .  For example, everyday bed accessories can be inappropriately used and recommended for fall prevention and bed mobility without knowledge of use limitations.  In this regard, undisclosed or hidden risks can include entrapment, increased fall risks due to instability, increased pressure points and increased fall risks due to restraint issues.  As indicated by Invisible CareGiver, all sides need to understand the risks, risk management and liability issues of using and recommending ineffective mobility assistance devices.  Consequently, Invisible CareGiver recommends creating a safe environment to avoid mobility device fall risks by making sure the medical device selected is designed or appropriate for the intended and potential use. 

Assumptions and decisions or recommendations based upon convenience create fall injury risks for senior citizens using mobility aid devices.  In an effort to address mobility aids and their uses, Invisible CareGiver cautions that often one mobility aid is recommended, leaving gaps in the individual’s mobility needs and these mobility gaps create risks that need to be addressed before a fall or fall injury occurs.  As such, many elder care mobility needs are not properly addressed, giving rise to the need to do a better job in addressing mobility issues and fall prevention among the elderly or senior citizens since falls, unintended mobility device uses, and restraint and entrapment issues can be an open invitation to liability risks.  Again,  Invisible CareGiver asserts that knowledge can create effective risk management programs and recommendations.