According to statistics provided by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, thirty-five to forty percent of people over 65 years of age seek medical attention resulting from a fall at least once a year. While fall risks cannot be completely eliminated, a few practical steps can be taken to minimize these risks in the home.
Proper Lighting. Every room should have a light or light switch at each entryway, so no one needs to enter a dark room. Nightlights should be used to illuminate paths from the bed to the bathroom, kitchen, or any other place in the home that may need accessed during the night.
Uncluttered Walkways. Walkways should be clear of electric cords, pet’s toys, or any other trip hazards.
Appropriate Floor Surfaces. All carpets or rugs should be flat and stay in place. Rugs that slip should be replaced or secured in place by carpet tacks or carpet tape. Any spills on smooth floor surfaces should be cleaned promptly.
Easy Phone Access. A cell phone to wear on a belt or put in a pocket is ideal. Or have multiple phones spread in strategic places around the home, so no one needs to hurry to a phone to answer it.
Suitable Footwear. Supportive rubber-soled shoes should be worn.
Safe Stairways. Sturdy handrails should be installed at stairways, even if only one or two steps are involved and uneven or loose steps should be repaired promptly. All steps should have non-slip surfaces and be well lighted.
Appropriate Chairs. Chairs should be sturdy and have armrests that can be used to help you stand up.
Sturdy Furniture. Furniture, especially near any walkways, should be sturdy enough to support the weight of anyone who may need to reach out to steady himself or stop a fall.
Organized Closets/Cabinets. Items that need to be accessed with regularity should be placed where they can be reached easily and safely.
Properly Equipped Bathrooms. A non-slip tub or shower surface is essential, as well as strategically-placed handrails near the commode and bath.
Appropriate Eyewear. Eyeglasses, if needed, should be worn consistently and be readily available next to the bed and sitting areas.
As fall risk increases with age or illness, we need to develop special safety awareness and adjust our habits accordingly. We need to see our environment through new eyes, being deliberately conscious of factors that can precipitate a fall. It is okay to let the phone ring or let the person at the door wait while we safely take our time to respond. It is okay to ask for help more often than we otherwise would.
Author: Unknown
