One of the most heart-wrenching things we experience in our work helping seniors downsize and relocate are those situations in which people are forced to move, rather than choosing to move. The number one reason: falls.
A fall can have devasting consequences. They can cause broken bones, like wrist, arm, ankle and hip fractures. Or, the cause more even worse outcomes, like as head injuries and blood clots.
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control, about one in four adults age 65 and older nationwide report falling each year. This results in about 36 million falls each year. In Delaware, 26% of our seniors fell in 2020 (the last year of reporting), which means more than 46,000 of our neighbors suffered a potentially life-altering event.
These events can sometimes cause doctors, rehab specialists and families to strongly urge seniors to move from a home. Without a plan for their next step, seniors and their families are forced into making a quick decision to move from independent living to assisted living, or from a private home into a long-term senior community.
That’s why during our seminars we always encourage seniors and families to think through the next step.
It’s never too early. In Sussex County there are many options should the need arise for assisted living or other long-term care options. For seniors already living in a continuing care retirement community, placing your name on an assisted living wait list is easy to do, and does not typically commit you to moving as soon as there is an opening. Sussex County has several senior advisory firms – among them, Care Patrol of Delaware, Oasis Senior Advisors and Elite Senior Services – all of which will compare your options for you, set up tours and make the shopping much easier. And none charges you anything for their services.
Give legacy gifts before they’re your legacy. Make a list of the items in your home that you want to leave to someone special in your life. If you’re able to part with them, gift them now. You can then enjoy the happiness your loved ones will have with their new treasures. If you want to hold on to them for a bit longer, make sure your family knows of your intentions, and make sure that your loved one actually wants the item.
Improve your balance.There are fall prevention programs like A Matter of Balance, that can help improve balance. Keeping fit and practicing yoga are also great ways to help improve your health and reduce your chances of a fall.
Consider a medical alert system. There are many options for an alert system to call authorities if you fall, and the time to research them is before you need it. AARP’s website can help you sort through all the options available and which best suits your needs and lifestyle. There is also a local Delaware company called SeaCure Solutions that specializes in medical alert systems
Take inventory. It’s much easier to downsize and declutter while you’re healthy and have the luxury of time. After a fall, the decisions may be made on your behalf and your family may not have the time to go through every item. Look around your house, take an inventory, and dispose of items in your kitchen, your closets, your attic, your basement and/or your shed that you do not use on at least a yearly basis. Donate or sell what you no longer need.
Seek support. There’s no doubt that these plans can be complex and stressful. Talk through and document your decisions with trusted friends or family, so they know a plan has been made should you get hurt. The right personal support system can help you evaluate the information you gather, and create a good sounding board for reviewing choices and making decisions.
The worst time to plan for your next step is after an accident. Everyone involved is panicked and lacking focus. We too often see cases where cleaning out a house is even more stressful when the primary decision-maker is unable to participate in the process.
Planning for the next step long before you need to take it offers peace of mind, and allows you to enjoy every step. And, be careful!
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Stacey Himler is owner of Caring Transitions of Southern Delaware, the region’s professional solution for full relocation services including downsizing, decluttering and estate sales.
To ask Stacey questions, write her at AskStacey@caringtransitions.com.
