Selecting the Right Fall Management Solution for Senior Living
About fall management in senior living
As senior living communities look for ways to improve the safety and well-being of their residents, selecting a fall management solution is becoming increasingly important. Falls are a major concern for older adults and care communities, as they can lead to serious injuries and even death, and lengthy and costly litigation, respectively. With the right fall detection solution, senior living communities can help prevent falls and provide a higher level of care for their residents.
Three available fall management solutions
When considering fall detection solutions, there are three main options to choose from: sensor-based technology, wearable technology, and disposable sensor pads. Each of these options has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to evaluate them carefully to find the best fit for your community’s needs.
Sensor-Based Technology
The first option in the fall solutions portfolio is sensor-based technology that uses radio frequency to detect falls. This technology is highly accurate and works in all lighting conditions, dense steam, and high humidity. It is also touchless, which means that it respects the privacy of the resident. This option integrates with nurse call systems, which makes it easy for caregivers to respond quickly to a fall.
Wearable Technology
The second option in the fall solutions portfolio is wearable technology that uses accelerometers to detect falls. This technology is worn by the resident on a pendant or around their wrist and sends an automatic alert to caregivers via nurse call enabled devices. It is ideal for residents who are more active or mobile as it enables advanced location features. The device also includes a button that activates nurse call.
Disposable Sensor Pads
The third option in the fall solutions portfolio is a disposable sensor pad that is placed under the resident’s mattress, chair, or floor mat. This option is cost-effective and detects changes in pressure, alerting caregivers if the resident gets out of bed, a chair, or steps onto the floor. It is ideal for patients who are less active or have limited mobility. Additionally, the device works right out of the box, with the option to tie into existing nurse call systems.
How to select a fall management solution
When choosing a fall detection solution, it’s important to consider the unique needs of your community. For example, if your residents are highly active, wearable technology may be the best choice. On the other hand, if your residents are less active or have limited mobility, disposable sensor pads may be a more practical solution.
Other factors to consider when selecting a fall detection solution include cost, ease of use, and integration with existing systems. It’s also important to choose a solution that provides accurate and reliable fall detection, as false alarms can be frustrating for both residents and caregivers.
Overall, fall detection solutions are an essential part of ensuring the safety and well-being of senior living community residents. By carefully evaluating the different options available, communities can find a solution that meets their unique needs and provides a higher level of care for their residents.
