It is easy for anyone to accidentally trip over a rug or furniture in our homes. But as we age, a small tumble can have a much larger impact and be much more harmful than when we were younger. According to the CDC, falls are the most common cause of nonfatal injuries and hospital admissions for trauma. 6 out of every 10 falls happen at home. The most common falls occur from tripping over objects on the floor, such as loose rugs.
You may be at higher risk for falling if you:
Are 65 years or older
Use a walker, cane or other walking aid
Have poor vision and/or hearing
Are in poor health or have had a previous fall
Are not eating nutritious meals- this can cause weakness and/or other health conditions like osteoporosis
By making small adjustments to your home, you can help lower the risk of falling at home. We have broken down these tips by room and category so you can make your entire home safer.
General Home Tips
Store frequently used items at waist level in easy-to-reach places
Select furniture with armrests for support when getting up and down
Don't carry bulky or heavy items up or down stairs
Make sure you are up to date on your prescription eyeglasses
Wear nonskid footwear
Use a reacher/grabber to reach small objects on high shelves
Install sturdy handrails on stairs- on both sides if possible
Outdoors
Have walkways and driveway cleared of snow, ice and leaves
Have someone spread sand or salt on icy surfaces
Install and use handrails on outdoor steps
Place a secure mat at the entrance to the home
Watch out for icy and wet surfaces
Bathrooms
Use a raised toilet with safety bars for help getting up and down
Install grab bars in the tub and shower and next to the toilet
Install a hand-held shower head
Use a shower chair
Place nonskid adhesive strips or a nonslip mat in the tub/shower
Use liquid soap to prevent dropping a bar of soap
Floors
Place nonskid treads or double-sided tape under area rugs
Remove throw rugs
Keep cords and wires out of the way
Wipe up spills immediately
Put step stools and ladders away immediately after use
Remove clutter from floors and chairs
Be aware of small pets and pet items
Lighting
Replace dim or burned out light bulbs with soft white light bulbs
Place a night light by the bed
Install a bedside switch that makes it easy to turn the lights on and off, or purchase a touch lamp
Place the telephone next to the bed within easy reach
Ensure every room, entrance, walkway and stairway is well lit
Have flashlights within easy reach
Family members and caregivers can help make adjustments to older adults' homes to make them as safe as possible to prevent falls. There are local senior or community-based agencies that can assist in getting some of these safety supplies. Take some simple steps today to make your home safer for you and your loved ones.
Sources:
Lutheran Health Network- Preventing Falls at Home brochure