Safety Tips: How to Reduce the Risk of Falls At Home
Fall-proofing your senior parent or relative’s surroundings can help them age in place while making sure they stay safe and avoid falling
Statistics show that one in three seniors falls every year. Unfortunately, many falls cause serious injuries and even death. If you have noticed that your loved one is having problems getting around with no help, professional home care agencies recommend you fall-proof your parent's home. It is a lot easier than it sounds and it can prevent a lot of catastrophic events that can lead to loss of independence.
Secure the Carpets
A lot of seniors don't pick their feet up when they walk. Instead, they shuffle them, which can cause them to trip and fall down. Secure carpets in their home to the floor and cover hardwood with anchored carpet. You can also buy a non-slip rug pad so that the rug won't slip under your senior's feet.
Ensure Their Home is Easy to Navigate
There are several things you can do to make sure that your loved one's home is easy to navigate. If necessary, rearrange the furniture so that your parent has plenty of room to move around. Things that they often use should be accessible so that they don't have to reach for them or climb on the stool to get them. Figure out which items are commonly used, such as clothing in closets, food in kitchen cabinets, power outlets, or keys and make them accessible. Your loved one's home should be well-lit so that they can see clearly where they are going. Professional home care providers recommend putting nightlights in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways so that your loved one can move safely around their home even if they get up in the middle of the night.
Secure the Stairs and the Bathroom
If your parent has stairs in their home, think about installing railings. Keep in mind that staircase accidents are the second-leading cause of accidental injury, so make sure every set of stairs has at least two railings. You can also install grab bars in the bathtub, shower, and toilets.
Go the Extra Mile
You are probably afraid that your loved one will fall down and won't be able to call for help. Installing a help button will put your mind at ease since your parent will be able to immediately reach someone in case an accident occurs. There are many devices on the market and numerous brands to choose from, so choose the one that best suits your loved one's needs.
Consider Professional Home Care
Top-quality professional home care agencies such as Visiting Angels of Boulder County, CO, can ensure your loved one maintains their independence whilst living safely in their own home. Caregivers can assess your parent's home and fall-proof it, as well as assist them with everyday activities.
Visiting Angels of Boulder County is a leading provider of non-medical in home care services for seniors. To learn more about the in-home assisted living services provided by our staff of compassionate caregivers, please call our Longmont office at (303) 828-2664 or contact us for more information.
Visiting Angels proudly serves Allenspark, Boulder, Eldorado Springs, Erie, Hygiene, Lafayette, Longmont, Louisville, Lyons, Nederland, Niwot, Pinecliff, Ward, and the surrounding areas of Boulder County, CO.