Clearday Clubs of Leon Valley

FALL RISKS

Individuals with dementia have double the risk of falling compared to those without cognitive decline, with rates approaching 50%. This elevated risk is primarily driven by changes in spatial awareness, impaired depth perception, poor balance, and wandering.If you or a loved one are managing dementia and fall risks, consider these critical safety strategies:

Why Falls Happen??

Depth Perception: Dementia affects how the brain processes vision, making steps and curbs look further or closer than they are.

Gait Changes:
Many patients develop an unsteady, shuffling walk, which increases the likelihood of tripping.

Medication Side Effects: Certain medications for dementia and anxiety can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and low blood pressure, leading to instability upon standing.

Confusion & Judgment: Individuals may forget that they require assistance to walk or make unsafe, independent decisions.

Proactive Prevention Strategies.

Modify the Environment:
Remove all throw rugs, tape down loose cords, and clear pathways of clutter.

Improve Visibility: Use bright lightbulbs to reduce shadows and glare. Use contrasting colors so that furniture, grab rails, and toilet seats stand out from the floor.
Install Supports: Add grab rails in bathrooms and sturdy handrails along both sides of staircases.

Routine Toileting: Because rushing to the bathroom is a major trigger for falls, schedule regular bathroom breaks.

Important Next StepsMedication

Review: Have a doctor or pharmacist check all prescriptions, including over-the-counter supplements, for medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness.

Vision and Hearing Checks: Ensure glasses and hearing aids are up to date and worn correctly.

Consult a Therapist: Work with a physical or occupational therapist to fit assistive devices (e.g., a walker or cane) and learn safe transfer techniques.

Fall Detection Devices: Consider using wearable medical alerts or bed-exit sensors to ensure immediate help is dispatched if a fall occurs.

To explore more resources on creating safe environments and exercises that improve stability, visit the Alzheimer's Foundation.

🧩 Memory games may seem simple, but for individuals with cognitive impairment, they provide valuable brain stimulation, social connection, and moments of success.

it’s not about winning—it’s about engagement, confidence, laughter, and meaningful connections. ❤️

It's wonderful to see how each of our members are so encouraging and supportive of each other.

More Ball Dump fun!

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. It is important to take charge of your brain health! Learn 10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain from the Alzheimer's Association that you can adopt today:

10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain Learn about healthy actions you can take for your brain that can lower the risk of cognitive decline and possibly dementia.

Spurs!! Way to Go!!

Today we had a fabulous conversation with our Friday Crew! ❤️

With Father’s Day just around the corner, I asked the fathers in our group one simple question:

“What advice would you give a new father?”

The answers were heartfelt, thoughtful, funny, and full of wisdom gained through years of experience. It was such a privilege to listen as they shared lessons about love, patience, family, and what truly matters most.

I was able to capture some of their wonderful advice, so be sure to take a look at the back of our June calendar to read their words of wisdom.

Thank you to all of the fathers who shared their stories and experiences today. Your insights are a gift to the next generation. 💙

Things can get a little intense here at Clearday Club!! 😆