Ensure the Safety of Your Elderly Loved Ones. Take Measures to Prevent Falls within the Home
If you fall, you could break a bone, like thousands of older men and women do each year. For older people, a break can be the start of more serious problems, such as a trip to the hospital, injury, or even disability. Something so simple can change your life.
If you or an older person you know has fallen, you’re not alone. More than one in three people age 65 years or older falls each year. The risk of falling—and fall-related problems—rises with age.
Many Older Adults Fear Falling
Causes and Risk Factors for Falls
Many factors can contribute and cause a fall. Eyesight, hearing, and reflexes might not be the same and as sharp as they were when you were younger. Diabetes, heart disease, or problems with your thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels can affect your balance. Some medicines can cause you to feel dizzy or sleepy, making you more likely to fall. Other causes include safety hazards in the home or community environment.
Things You Can Do to Reduce the Risk of An Elderly Person Falling in Their Home
Nearly six out of every 10 falls happen at home. Home is where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. There are many changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety.
Use these Tips to Fall-Proof a Home for an Elderly Loved One
Safety Tips for Hallways, Stairs and Common Areas
- Make sure there is good lighting with light switches at the top and bottom of stairs and on each end of a long hall. Remember to use the lights!
- Have handrails on both sides of the stairs, and make sure they are tightly fastened. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs, going up or down.
- Keep areas where you walk free of clutter.
- Check that all carpets are fixed firmly to the floor so they won’t slip.
Fall-Proof Your Bedrooms and Bathrooms
- Remember to use night lights at night and in darker indoor spaces.
- Put night lights and light switches close to your bed.
- Mount handle bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower.
- Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.
- Keep a flashlight easily accessible near your bed in case the power is out and you need to get up.
- Keep your telephone near your bed.
Tips to Fall-Proof Your Living Rooms
- Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths.
- Secure all carpets and large area rugs firmly to the floor.
- Know where your pet its and don’t let them tripe you by being under foot.
- Arrange your furniture (especially low coffee tables) and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk.
- Make sure your sofas and chairs are easy to get in and out of.
- If you have to use anything to stand on, use a step ladder or a ‘reach stick’ Reach sticks are special grabbing tools that you can buy at many hardware or medical-supply stores.
- If you use a step stool, make sure it is steady and has secure handrails.
Home Care are an excellent resource for family caregivers and seniors alike.
Alliance Senior Care Home Care services offer a wide range of services providing healthcare, daily living assistance, transportation to and from Doctor’s appointments and tailored care services for additional circumstances.