Final answer:
Suggested interventions for the elderly woman to prevent falls at home include installing grab bars, having a home health nurse assess the home for fall risks, encouraging exercises to improve balance and mobility, and wearing an emergency response pendant for rapid assistance in case of emergencies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question relates to an older woman expressing fears about falling at home and what interventions the nurse could suggest. The following interventions should be suggested to the woman:
- Install grab bars by toilets, bathtub, and shower to provide support and prevent falls.
- Home health nurse assessment of the home for potential fall risks, leading to proactive modifications that may be necessary.
- Engage in exercises that are designed to improve balance and mobility, thus reducing the risk of falls.
- Wearing an emergency response pendant at home can ensure rapid assistance in case of falls or other emergencies.
Requesting that a family member move in with the elderly woman may provide constant support and reduce the risks of falling, but it is also important to consider the woman’s preference for independence and it might not always be feasible. Therefore, while it can be considered, it should be based on the individual's circumstances and choices.
It's essential to address both the prevention of falls and the immediate response if they occur. Emphasizing the importance of independence along with safety can be beneficial for the psychological well-being of the elderly and can encourage proactive involvement in their own health care decisions. As such, these interventions aim to empower the elderly woman to live safely, yet as autonomously as possible.