When your elderly parent is in a nursing home, you could often feel anxious about their safety. Falls are a common concern, and rightly so – they are a leading cause of injury and death among seniors. But what about the “low impact” falls that do not result in immediate hospitalization or obvious injury? Are they really as harmless as they seem?
The truth is that these seemingly minor falls can have significant consequences for nursing home residents. Even if your parent appears to “bounce back” from a fall, they may still be at risk for a range of complications that can affect their quality of life, independence and even lifespan.
Increased Fall Risk
For older people, a single fall can increase the risk of future falls by up to 50%. This creates a vicious cycle of fear, anxiety and decreased mobility.
Decreased Mobility
Even minor falls can lead to a decline in mobility, making it harder for your parent to perform daily tasks, maintain independence and enjoy activities they love.
Infections
Minimal-impact falls can still cause bruises cuts, and minor fractures. It can increase the risk of infections, particularly if your parent has underlying health conditions.
What you can do
To ensure your parent receives the best possible care and support, it is essential to take a proactive role in their fall prevention and response plan. This can be achieved by monitoring their care and ensuring the nursing home is providing adequate fall prevention measures, such as bed alarms, grab bars and regular mobility assessments.
If your parent does experience a fall, and you suspect that the nursing home’s negligence or abuse contributed to it, a personal injury lawyer can help. They can guide you through the legal process and advocate on your behalf to hold the nursing home accountable for any harm caused to your parent.
Remember, even “low impact” falls can have a profound impact on your parent’s life. By being aware of the hidden dangers, taking proactive steps and seeking proper support, you can help ensure your parent receives the care and support they need to thrive.
