7 Tips to Prevent Seniors From Falling at Home

Falls are the most common accident seniors experience and can lead to severe and lasting injuries. Most of the time, falls happen at home. There are seven ways to improve safety in the home to decrease the chances of falling.

The first step is to clean up any clutter around the house. Loose objects and papers present tripping and slipping hazards. Make sure everything has a place and is put back when not in use, including pet toys and feeding containers.

The second step is to clear away anything else that can cause tripping. Keep electrical cords bundled up and out of sight if possible. Remove carpet rugs and runners because they do not stay in place very well, and thick rugs have raised edges that can easily be stumbled over.Rearrange or get rid of excessive furniture to create more walking space.

The third step is to keep the floors dry. Immediately wipe up spills and dry the affected area. Polish hard floors with non-skid wax to make them less slippery. Place a non-skid mat on the bathroom floor and in the tub or shower to avoid slipping on water puddles.

The fourth step is to wear proper footwear inside the house. Wear shoes instead of just socks. Even rubber-soled socks are not always reliable and can wear through quickly. Replace shoes once they are worn. Avoid shoes with heels and laces that can come untied and cause tripping. Also, put rubber tips on the bottoms of canes and walkers.

The fifth step is to make sure the home is well lit. Stairways in particular need to have sufficient lighting. Plug in nightlights in the hallways and bathrooms for safer nighttime trips to the toilet. Remember to keep the walkway and stairs leading to the front door well lit, too.

The sixth step is to install handles and handrails wherever possible. It is most important to place them in the tub or shower and on steps and stairs indoors and out. Look out for other areas that can use a grab bar.

The seventh step is to eliminate seasonal hazards. Have the walkways and driveways shoveled and salted in the winter, raked in the fall, and swept of loose grass and branches in the spring and summer. Keep the yard maintained as well so no plants overgrow onto walking areas or make it dangerous to walk on the lawn.

When seniors take these preventive measures, they greatly reduce their risk of falling at home. But they may need help doing so. To learn about senior care services in Carlsbad, visit this website.