Author: Andrea Miller
Reviewed By: Brindusa Vanta
When a parent in assisted living keeps having falls, it’s time to take the steps to keep your parent safe. They may need more care and supervision than their current community offers.
In this situation, the first step is a comprehensive medical evaluation. The National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) reports that falls often indicate new or progressive health problems. Talk to your family member’s health care team about their care plan and ask them to make new recommendations after a thorough mental and physical exam.
About 25% of adults ages 65 and older fall each year. About 33% of these falls occur in the person’s home, usually in the bathroom or bedroom, according to a 2023 report from NCAL. Based on those numbers, it makes sense that assisted living falls happen relatively often.
You can help your parents avoid falls with some smart safety steps. Remove clutter like extra furniture and throw rugs. These items increase the risk of fall accidents. Make sure your loved one wears shoes that fit well with low heels. You can also encourage them to use a mobility aid such as a walker or cane, or ask one of the assisted living staff members for help getting around when they need it.
Get your loved one assessed by a healthcare professional for a personalized fall prevention plan. Consider evaluating alternative facilities or nursing homes to enhance safety and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
