How to Spot the Early Warning Signs of Falls in Older Relatives
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Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults. But while a sudden tumble might seem to come out of nowhere, many falls are actually preceded by subtle warning signs that can go unnoticed until it’s too late.
If you’re supporting an elderly parent or relative, keeping an eye out for these early indicators can help you act before a serious accident occurs.
Changes in walking or movement
Slower movement, shuffling, or struggling to get out of a chair can all point to a growing risk of imbalance. Some people may begin favouring one leg or using furniture for support without realising they’re doing it.
If you notice this, it may be time to speak to their GP and consider mobility aids or home adjustments. This article on mobility aids offers a helpful starting point.
Frequent trips or near-misses
It’s not just full falls that matter. If a relative mentions “nearly going over” or you notice more bruises than usual, these might be warnings that their balance or coordination is declining.
Small changes, such as installing grab rails or improving lighting, can make a big difference, as can encouraging your loved one to wear suitable footwear and get regular eye tests.
Cognitive changes or confusion
Sometimes falls occur not just because of physical weakness, but due to confusion or disorientation. If your loved one has dementia or another condition affecting memory and judgement, this can increase the risk of wandering or tripping.
This guide to dementia and walking about explains more about the risks and how to support someone who may be prone to this behaviour.
Reluctance to move around
It might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes people who are worried about falling reduce their activity, which in turn weakens their muscles and balance. This creates a vicious cycle that can lead to a fall.
Try to gently encourage regular movement, and consider a strength and balance programme if available in their area. Local AgeUK centres are often a good place to enquire.
Unexplained anxiety or behaviour changes
If a parent suddenly seems more anxious, especially about being alone, it may stem from a fall (or near fall) they haven’t told you about. Embarrassment or fear of losing independence can stop older adults from speaking up.
In these situations, many families now choose to use discreet fall detection technology like the Perfect Alert fall detection watch, to provide peace of mind and faster help if something does happen.
Summary
Spotting the early signs of a potential fall doesn’t mean wrapping your loved one in cotton wool. But by taking action early – whether that’s booking a health check, making changes at home, or considering technology that can call for help – you can protect their independence and reduce the risk of serious injury.
Photo by Christian Wiediger on Unsplash