Each year, roughly one quarter of America’s older population sustains an injury in a fall. Falls are the leading cause of injuries among seniors in the U.S., sending three million older people to the emergency room each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control, twenty percent of all falls end in broken bones or head trauma. It’s a problem that costs the healthcare system billions of dollars each year.
Compassionate Home Care Partners knows how pervasive this issue is. We also know that falls can be a vicious cycle. When someone falls, they develop a fear of falling again. That makes them less active, which in turn makes them weaker and more prone to future falls.
So what’s to be done about this issue? Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself or your loved ones.
Home Safety Tips for the Elderly
1 – Wear shoes at home
This is a situation where you may have to trade comfort for extra safety at home. When you walk around with just socks, you’re more likely to slip. And baggy clothing can cause you to trip. Try to wear clothes that won’t bunch up as you walk. If keeping your shoes on all day seems too uncomfortable, consider wearing socks with non-slip grips.
2 – Declutter your space
Clearing away things that could block your path is a great way to prevent falls. Pay attention to the area near stairs and hallways. In fact, you may want to avoid the stairs altogether. If possible, consider investing in a stair lift.
Remove trip hazards such as loose carpeting and rugs or uneven floorboards. These measures will go a long way toward helping you avoid falls.
3 – Non-slip surfaces
Many falls happen in the bathroom, either in the shower or tub or simply due to wet floors. Putting in non-slip mats can help you avoid a potentially fatal injury.
4 – Light up your pathway
Fall prevention will be more effective when you can see. Try adding some nightlights in your bedroom and bathrooms and install brighter bulbs along hallways and near stairs.
5 – Give yourself something to grab onto
Grab bars and handrails are crucial for people who want to safely get in and out of the shower, on and off the toilet or up and down steps. You can even install a handrail in your hallways for an added dose of precaution.
6 – Slow down
One way to prevent falls at home is to move slowly and carefully. Try to avoid getting up or sitting down too quickly.
Personal Care Assistant for Seniors Polk County
Seniors stay safer at home when they can be active and engaged, which is where our personal care assistants in Polk County can help.
Our in-home care services go beyond just housekeeping and personal care, to include things that let you or your loved ones lead a richer life, such as talk and sharing experiences, playing games or doing puzzles, and escorting them to check-ups, errands and social activities.
Contact us today to learn more about our Polk County companion care services, which are available to both seniors living at home and those in retirement communities, nursing homes and other forms of long-term care.
