As the leaves start to fall, it’s essential to ensure that your home remains a safe haven, especially for seniors. Fall-proofing your home can prevent accidents and promote healthy aging. Here are the top 10 tips to help you fall-proof your home this autumn.
Top 10 Tips to Prevent Falls at Home
- Install Grab Bars: Place grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs to provide support. These can be lifesavers in preventing slips and falls, especially in wet areas. Grab bars offer stability and can be easily installed in key locations around the home. ThedaCare At Home offers a variety of grab bars to suit your needs.
- Improve Lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairways and hallways, are well-lit. Use night lights in bedrooms and bathrooms to help navigate in the dark. Good lighting reduces the risk of tripping over unseen obstacles and helps maintain balance.
- Remove Tripping Hazards: Clear clutter, secure rugs, and fix loose floorboards. Keeping pathways clear can significantly reduce the risk of tripping. Regularly check for and remove any items that could cause a fall, such as electrical cords or small furniture. Additionally, non-skid socks can keep you save on various surfaces.
- Use Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen. These mats provide extra grip and can prevent slips on wet surfaces. Ensure that mats are securely placed and do not have edges that could cause tripping. ThedaCare At Home recommends the Carex®: Bath Mat.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Encourage wearing shoes with good grip indoors. Avoid walking around in socks or slippers that can easily slip on smooth floors. Shoes with non-slip soles provide better traction and support.
- Rearrange Furniture: Create clear pathways to avoid obstacles. Ensure that furniture is arranged in a way that allows easy movement throughout the home. Avoid placing furniture in high-traffic areas where it could cause tripping.
- Install Handrails: Ensure staircases have sturdy handrails on both sides. Handrails provide additional support and stability when navigating stairs. Regularly check that handrails are secure and in good condition.
- Check Medications: Some medications can cause dizziness; consult with a doctor. Regularly review medications with a healthcare provider to manage side effects. Being aware of how medications affect balance can help prevent falls.
- Regular Exercise: Promote balance and strength exercises. Activities like tai chi, yoga, and walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Exercise also enhances overall physical health and mobility.
- Routine Vision Checks: Ensure regular eye exams to maintain good vision. Clear vision is crucial for identifying potential hazards and navigating safely. Addressing vision issues promptly can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
How ThedaCare At Home Can Help
By taking these steps, you can create a safer environment and enjoy the autumn season without worry. Fall-proofing your home is an essential part of healthy aging and maintaining independence. Implementing these tips can help ensure that you or your loved ones stay safe and secure at home. From bathroom safety items and aids to daily living to stair lifts and lift chairs—ThedaCare At Home can help you find what you need to stay safe, comfortable and independent at home!
Bathroom Safety General Home Safety
September 16, 2024 by ThedaCare At Home