Taking steps now to prevent a possible fall is paramount. While some believe the best way to prevent falls is to limit activity and stay at home, this is simply not true. Regular exercise and body movement will promote independence by maintaining strength and balance. 

Aside from a lack of exercise, other common causes of falls include trip hazards, complications of medical conditions, vision impairment, and irregularity in medication routines. Our trained care staff are experts in identifying potential trip hazards within the home including electrical cords and throw rugs, identifying concerns related to diabetic neuropathy which causes numbness in the limbs and orthostatic hypotension which causes a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing. Caregivers can ensure that the client is wearing their glasses each day to lessen vision impairment and provide medication reminders to maintain regular adherence thus avoiding impairment of balance or other medical conditions.  

By creating and implementing a customized care plan, our caregivers learn the client’s routine and history, allowing them to anticipate their needs on a daily basis. While promoting independence and encouraging exercise are important, some clients are unable to perform many activities of daily living and household maintenance without support. Gentle Shepherd staff are well versed in assisting in bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, and housekeeping tasks, while determining the proper level of involvement for the client based on their ability and stamina. 

As always, Gentle Shepherd is focused on enriching the well-being of the whole home; extending beyond the client, to deliver respite, relief, resources, and education to the family and support team.