National Safety Month: Our Tampa Elder Law Attorney Explains How Older Adults Can Reduce Fall Risks

Falls pose serious threats to people over 60. Even a minor fall accident can cause injuries that impact your health and mobility, resulting in a loss of autonomy and necessitating the need for nursing homes and other types of long-term care.

June is National Safety Month, which raises awareness of common hazards and how people of all ages can protect their safety. For older adults, our Tampa elder law attorney explains how to reduce fall risks.

 Falls Pose Serious Hazards To Older Adults In Tampa

The Florida Department of Health warns that falls pose serious threats to people of all ages throughout the state. They are particularly common among older adults and a leading cause of death and disability.

The National Safety Council sponsors National Safety Month annually in June. The goal is to raise awareness of issues that could impact health and safety. For people over 60, preventing falls is at the top of the list. Fall accidents involving older adults can happen at home, at your doctor’s office, when shopping for groceries, or while visiting family and friends.

Even a seemingly minor fall could result in sprained muscles, broken bones, and serious back or neck injuries. This can cause a loss of independence, necessitating the need for long-term care, and may even hasten an otherwise untimely death. Ways to reduce fall risks among older adults in Bradenton include:

• Wear supportive, non-slip shoes both at home and when going out;
• Ask your doctor about chronic conditions or medications you may be taking that could make you unsteady on your feet;
• Clear your home of clutter, use non-slip mats at doors, and make sure there is adequate lighting in hallways and stairs;
• Be cautious in public places and stay alert for wet floors, uneven flooring surfaces, and other hazards.

Estate Planning Documents in Tampa To Protect Older Adults Against Falls

Despite taking precautions, slip and fall accidents can still happen. If you are over 60, these can lead to serious injuries and potential long-term disabilities. Having the appropriate estate planning documents in place can help to protect you in this situation. These include:

• Power of attorney: This designates someone you trust to manage your financial affairs in the event fall injuries leave you incapacitated.
• Advance directives: These convey your wishes regarding medical care.
• Medical trust: This protects your assets by making you eligible for Medicaid, which can offset the high costs of nursing homes or other long-term care you need for recovery.
• An updated will: This protects you and your loved ones in the event fall injuries prove life-threatening.

 Request A Consultation With Our Tampa Elder Law Attorney 

Falls pose serious risks to older adults and are a leading cause of death and disability. At Strategic Counsel Law Group, L.C., we help protect you by ensuring you have the appropriate estate planning documents in place. To request a consultation with our Tampa elder law attorney, call or contact our office online today.

Sources:

flhealthcharts.gov/ChartsDashboards/rdPage.aspx?rdReport=Death.Dataviewer&cid=0103

nsc.org/workplace/national-safety-month#:~:text=June%20is%20National%20Safety%20Month

medicaid.gov/