Prevention of Falls in Developmental Disabilities
- The article "Fall Prevention: 6 Ways to Reduce Your Falling Risk" suggests that those prone to falling (such as people with developmental disabilities or the elderly) should regularly visit their doctors. Those with vision or hearing impairments should have other ways of understanding their environment to prevent falls. Medications that can cause dizziness, drowsiness or confusion can contribute to falling in those with developmental disabilities, and should be avoided if possible. If applicable, caregivers should pay close attention to a person with a developmental disability when she is on such medication. Regular health checkups ensure that an individual is healthy enough to get around, or if he needs assistance such as a cane, walker, wheelchair or other type of mobile help.
- The Network of Care for Developmental Disabilities website suggests that those with developmental disabilities can prevent falls by regularly exercising. Exercise improves muscle tone, bone stability and balance and coordination. Exercise also prevents the development of a number of other health conditions. Adaptive recreation encourages people with physical and developmental disabilities to safely enjoy a variety of sports, exercises and activities, and is an effective way to prevent falls. See the Resources section below for more information on adaptive recreation.
- Remove obstacles such as electric cords, throw rugs, clutter and other objects that can become hazardous if stepped on or tripped over. Ensure that the residence of someone with a developmental disability has hand rails and other safety devices in bathrooms, near beds and other places where falls commonly occur. Also install nightlights to prevent falls in the darkness. You can also fall proof the home by ensuring that the person with a developmental disability wears comfortable yet firm-fitting shoes. Often, falls occur because someone's shoes are too loose or not properly laced, strapped or otherwise worn correctly.