Autumn and winter can be difficult times of year for elderly people living alone. The darker evenings can increase the risk of falls and accidents, and it can also be a time of social isolation.
Increased risk of falls and accidents
The darker evenings can make it difficult for elderly people to see clearly, which can increase the risk of falls and accidents. This is especially true if they have poor eyesight or mobility problems.
Here are some tips to help elderly people reduce their risk of falls and accidents during the darker evenings:
Remove clutter from walkways and tripping hazards
Make sure your home is well-lit, both inside and out
Install grab bars in the bathroom
Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms
Be careful when walking on uneven surfaces, such as stairs or icy pavements
Wear sturdy shoes or slippers with non-slip soles
Social isolation
The darker evenings can also lead to social isolation for elderly people living alone. They may be less likely to go out and socialise, and they may feel less safe walking around at night.
There are a number of reasons why elderly people may be less likely to go out in the dark. They may have vision problems, which can make it difficult to see in low light conditions. They may also have mobility problems, which can make it difficult to get around safely. Additionally, they may be worried about crime or accidents.
As a result of these factors, elderly people living alone may spend more time indoors and less time socialising. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Loneliness can have a negative impact on both mental and physical health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
Here are some tips to help elderly people reduce social isolation during the darker evenings:
- Encourage them to stay connected with friends and family, either in person or over the phone or video chat
- Invite them to participate in social activities, such as club meetings, volunteer work, or religious services. Speak to your Reach & Respond responder to see if there are any local community centre events they could attend
- Introduce reassurance calls or visits from a Reach & Respond responder, for extra peace of mind for both your loved one and yourself
- Make sure they have access to transport, so they can get around safely, confidently and easily.
What can be done to help?
As well as being aware of the increased risks, Reach & Respond can provide extra reassurance in the worst case scenario that you or a loved one does have a fall.
With an average response time of just 24 minutes, we already work in partnership with the ambulance service to provide a faster response to low-level falls. These are falls where you may just need some assistance to get back on your feet and first aid, without the need for hospital treatment.
Our responders are first aid qualified and carry lots of equipment to ensure your safety, including lifting equipment and defibrillators.
By working together, we can help elderly people living alone to stay safe and connected during the darker evenings.