Tips to Fall Proof Your Home: How to arrange your home to reduce fall risk
As a home health care agency, one of Sunshine Home Care's biggest concerns is fall prevention. Did you know that 6 out of 10 falls happen at home, or that 1 in 3 people age 65 or older falls every year?
This is because not only is home where you spend most of your time, but it is a place you move around frequently without concern for safety. Many seniors are concerned about the risks of falling and may even let themselves restrict their activities due to the fear.
Below are some tips in fall-proofing your home so that limited activity or fear doesn't have to take over.
Living Room
Keep items you use frequently within reach of your sitting area
Keep a "reach stick" handy; this is something that can be picked up at your local Walmart or hardware store. This aids you in getting things that are in high places so that you do not need to reach or climb to stand on a chair or step stool.
Secure all carpets and large rugs to the floor. Do not use small throw or area rugs.
Keep all electrical and phone cords near walls and out of walking paths.
Make sure your sitting furniture is at a height easy enough for you to get in and out of.
If you have pets, be sure to know where they are at all times when walking.
Be sure to keep all walking paths free of clutter such as books, shoes, or clothes.
Bathroom
Use non-skid mats, strips or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet.
Install grab bars near toilets and inside and outside of the bath.
Use nightlights to illuminate the bathroom for late evening trips.
Bedroom
Use nightlights and make sure light switches are near your bed.
Keep a flashlight beside your bed in case of power outages.
Keep a telephone or fully charged cellphone near your bed.
Other tips
In addition to these home improvement tips, you can also use a medical emergency monitor. These are necklace or bracelet systems that have an alert button on them that will call 911. Keep in mind there are usually fees associated with these services.
If you have experienced a fall, your doctor may advise a nurse, physical therapist, or occupational therapist to visit you at home. If that is the case, Sunshine Home Care can help. Contact us or call us today at 1-877-477-2014 for more information.
