■ Recent changes in medical status ■ Recent changes in vision
■ Underlying medical conditions that increase injury risk from falls ■
Diuretics or medications with sedative effects that may impact balance or dizziness ■ Symptoms of depression ■ Orthostatic hypotension
■ Requires assistance with transferring/ambulating ■ Use of restraints or enablers Not an exhaustive list of risk factors
Employing Fall Risk Reduction Strategies in your Community
When assessing the level of fall risk for residents in your community, consider a comprehensive fall risk assessment. While there are many tools available to assist in this process, the best assessments approach the topic of falls holistically, taking into account multiple factors including:
Resident History ■
Previous falls ■ Current medications ■ Relevant medical risk factors
Physical Examination ■
Gait, balance, mobility, lower extremity function, muscle strength and feet ■ Neurological function ■ Cardiovascular status ■ Visual acuity
■ Level of urinary continence
Functional Assessment ■
■ Current activity level ■ Fears related to falling
Environmental Assessment ■
Safety of environment ■ Ability to navigate
Once these facets of resident condition are understood, an appropriate fall risk reduction plan can be developed. Work with your Direct Supply account manager to select the appropriate package of products to best support your residents’ needs.
