Losing your balance or tripping and falling can lead to a broken hip or even a traumatic brain injury. The chances of older adults falling increase for a number of reasons, including the fact that aging causes natural changes in muscle strength and balance while declining vision might contribute to a stumble and some medications can cause side effects like dizziness.
However, hazards in the home also create risk factors for falls in the elderly. Luckily, there are several simple things that can be done to reduce these dangers around the house.
Home Hazards for Elderly Adults
From poor lighting to cluttered walkways and slipping hazards like throw rugs, there are many household items and conditions that can cause someone to slip or trip and fall. Preventing falls at home is key, and these small adjustments can make a big difference for your aging loved ones. First pick up any unnecessary cutter or other items that a person could trip over. Remove throw rugs and check for electrical cords that may be extending into the walkways; items like lamps and electronics might need to be moved to another area to keep their cords tucked away. Another easy fix is adding more lights or brighter bulbs to better illuminate the home so your older family member can see any potential hazards when walking.
And outside the home, especially in autumn, fallen leaves can become slippery when wet. Make sure to sweep up leaves from the porches and sidewalks to keep them from causing someone to slip and fall. Reflective outdoor tape should also be utilized to mark step edges as well as traction tape on steps to minimize the chance of falling when stairs become wet. All of these are important parts of home safety for seniors.
A few other home modifications for elderly loved ones should be considered, too. Install secure railings along both sides of the stairs, both inside and outside the house. Grab bars could also be installed next to the toilet as well as inside and outside the shower or bathtub. A shower chair or hand-held sprayer can also be helpful in addition to a non-slip bath mat in the shower.
To do even more, there are minor projects that can be undertaken as part of senior home remodeling. For example, make bathing a safer experience by investing in a walk-in shower or tub to further prevent slipping and falling. Elsewhere in the home, add motion sensor lights near the front and back doors as well as the garage door, driveway and inside dark stairwells. Installing ramps to avoid stairs outside and chair lifts in two-level homes when climbing steps becomes a safety issue—or before it does—can increase the time your loved one may remain independent in their own home.
Fall Safety Tips for Elderly Loved Ones
Even after the home has been prepared to reduce the risk of falling, there are other safety tips to keep in mind. Consider an eye doctor appointment to make sure glasses or contacts are the correct prescription to help improve vision. Review medications with your loved one and their doctor or pharmacist to find out if any drugs they are taking could have side effects that contribute to falls.
Wear sensible shoes that fit correctly; footwear should have low heels and good tread that is not worn out. Consider wearing shoes inside the home for better traction than wearing socks alone. Keep shoelaces tied or Velcro fasteners secured firmly. If needed to aid with balance, a cane or walker might be a good investment. Don’t forget to slow down. Getting up or moving too quickly can often lead to a fall, so it’s best to advise loved ones to take a moment and make sure they are steady before sitting or standing.
Caregivers Can Help Prevent Fall Hazards
While it’s impossible to be there all the time to prevent your loved one from falling, taking these precautions is an important step. FirstLight’s caregivers are also trained to know the risk factors for falls in the elderly, watch out for potential hazards and address them before an accident happens.
Contact us for more information about FirstLight Home Care’s services to help your loved ones stay independent and safe in their own home.