Four Easy Ways to Prevent a Fall at Home

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 36 million older adults experience a fall each year. One out of every five falls results in a serious injury, including broken bones or cranial trauma. The majority of hip fractures in older adults result from a fall, typically when the older adult falls sideways.

In addition to physical injuries, falls can also cause older adults to suffer emotionally. Some older adults grow fearful of leaving home after experiencing a fall, worrying they may fall again. Others lose momentum in leisure pursuits, as injuries prevent them from participating.

Despite the large percentage of older adults who fall annually, it’s important to state that falls aren’t a normal part of aging. Older adults can keep their balance and avoid a fall risk by ensuring their home environment is safe. Here are four easy ways to prevent a fall at home.

Remove Throw Rugs

Although throw rugs might add color to a space, they present a more significant fall risk for older adults. Prevent a fall at home by removing slippery throw rugs from high trafficked areas. Removing throw rugs allows you to secure an even floor surface. It’s easy for throw rugs to move slightly while you’re stepping on them. It’s also easy for assistive devices, such as walkers or canes, to get caught on the throw rug. This can cause you to lose balance and fall as your momentum suddenly stops. If you don’t want to get rid of larger area rugs, install a rug gripper between the rug and the floor to help the rug stay in place.

Declutter Spaces

Another common fall hazard is clutter. One of the easiest ways to prevent a fall is to keep it tidy. Eliminate unnecessary items from the floor spaces, such as home decor or stacks of paper. Rearrange furniture to allow more space to move around. Get rid of furniture that is too bulky or that has caused you to trip in the past. Keep hallways and staircases free from clutter. Put groceries away immediately and pick up laundry or other items at the end of each day. Ensure you can navigate from room to room without having to step over anything. If you use a walker, cane, or wheelchair, ensure you can navigate from room to room with your assistive device.

 Wear Non-Slip Shoes

Many falls can be prevented by simply wearing non-slip shoes around the home. Although cozy socks may be more appealing, especially on cold days, they carry a slipping risk. Instead, choose to prevent a fall by putting on a pair of non-slip shoes. If you prefer a shoeless home, purchase a pair of shoes that you wear only indoors. You can also choose to wear non-slip socks or slippers, if they have grips on the soles of the feet.

 Install Grab Bars

Finally, prevent a fall at home by installing grab bars in the bathrooms. Grab bars can help older adults maneuver on and off the toilet, as well as stepping in and out of the bathtub. It can be tempting to rely on towel racks to help stand, but these aren’t made to support body weight. They can easily pull away from the wall, causing an even more significant fall. Instead, install grab bars in and around the shower or tub and near the toilet.

 Another way to prevent a fall at home is to partner with Visiting Angels Oshkosh. We provide compassionate care to seniors who need a little help to continue to live at home. Our senior care providers are skilled professionals. We’ll match you with a senior home care provider who will care for your health and well-being needs. Whether it’s helping you declutter your living spaces to prevent a fall or assisting you with a shower so that you don’t slip and fall in the bathroom, let us help keep you safe and sound. To learn more about our home care services, please contact us today by calling 920-312-7000.