Inside or outside, elderly alert systems can be helpful in case of a fall
June 13, 2011
Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Medical School recently conducted a study on the causes of falls for older adults, and they found that the risk of falling varies from person to person. The scientists said that at least half of the time, when older people fall down it occurs outside, but the majority of efforts made to prevent falls target hazards inside the home.
The conclusions of the study led researchers to recommend designing preventative safety measures for outdoor falls for healthy, active individuals and steps to improve safety around the home for older people who are not very mobile or strong and are more likely to spend their time indoors.
Older people can also invest in senior alert systems, which can be especially wise for individuals who live alone. Medical alert systems can help an older individual in the case of a falling accident where they may be unable to reach a phone to call for help.
The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that one in three people over the age of 65 fall every year. To prevent falls, older people can use the assistance of devices, such as canes and handrails, as well as medical alert systems.