Helping older relatives: mobility, falls and dignity

In many GCC homes, grandparents live with or close to the family. Small, thoughtful help from younger relatives can keep them safer and more independent, as long as it is given with respect.

Why falls matter

• The WHO estimates that about 684,000 people die from falls each year, making falls the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after road traffic injuries.
• Adults over 60 have the highest death rates from falls, and the risk of serious injury rises with age (WHO).
• WHO lists risk factors including medicine side effects, poor balance, physical inactivity, poor vision and unsafe environments.
• Many of these can be reduced, which is why simple changes at home make a real difference.

A falls-safe home checklist

• Clear clutter and loose wires from walkways, and remove or secure rugs (Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust).
• Make sure halls and stairs are well lit; suggest night lights and a torch by the bed in case of a power cut (Worcestershire NHS).
• Use a non-slip mat in the bath or shower and fit grab rails by the bath and toilet (Worcestershire NHS).
• Keep everyday items in the kitchen within easy reach so nobody climbs on chairs or stools (Worcestershire NHS).
• Watch out for trailing clothing such as long robes, saris or long nightwear, and for socks on slippery tiled or marble floors (Worcestershire NHS).

Habits that protect balance

• NHS England advice includes strength and balance exercises as part of a regular routine.
• Encourage regular eye tests (NHS England) and hearing checks (Worcestershire NHS).
• Medicines can make people dizzy. NHS advice is to have medicines reviewed regularly; you can help by reminding your relative to ask their doctor or pharmacist.
• If your relative has had a fall, encourage them to tell their doctor, even if they were not hurt (NHS England).
• WHO notes that balance and functional training, such as Tai Chi, can help prevent falls in older people. Joining a gentle walk together is a good start.

Helping with dignity

• Ask before you help: 'Would you like my arm on the stairs?' Many older people value doing things for themselves.
• Walk at their pace, not yours, and let them hold you rather than you pulling them.
• Speak to them as an adult. The Alzheimer's Society advises avoiding 'elderspeak', which it says can be upsetting and uncomfortable, and the same respect applies to all older people.
• Offer help with tasks like reaching high shelves, carrying shopping or fetching prescriptions in a matter-of-fact way so nobody feels like a burden.
• Patience is part of respect. Listening to the same story twice costs you a few minutes and means a great deal to them.

If someone falls

• Stay calm and do not rush to pull them up. Ask if they are hurt.
• If they are injured, confused, cannot get up or hit their head, call 998 for an ambulance in the UAE (UAE Government portal).
• For first aid steps, see the First Aid and Emergencies module.
• Afterwards, let other family members know and encourage a check-up with their doctor (NHS England).