Lessening Falls For The Aging parents Is Vital For Safe Independent Living

Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury and fractures among older adults

. Fear of falling can cause seniors to limit physical activity which makes them more susceptible to slipping and suffering injury. Reducing fall risk is an important part of allowing seniors to live at home independently. Here are some ways to reduce the chance of falling around the home.

Acceptable Lighting

Keep your home well lit so it's not necessary to stumble around in the dark. Insert nightlights throughout the house and have a flashlight in an easily accessible location. Place a light next to your bed so you can turn on the light before getting up. Have a light or switch right next to the entry door so it's not necessary to walk into a dark house. Always turn the lights on at night or use a flashlight if needed so you won't trip and fall in the darkness.

Restroom Safety

The bath room is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home so far as falls are concerned because of the risk of slipping on wet surfaces. You can reduce the risk by applying non-slip strips in the tub and using a non-slip mat or rug on the ground. Have grab bars installed in the tub and near the toilet. You may also require to use a shower bench so you can sit while you shower.

Outdoor Safety

Reducing fall risk outside the home is important to consider as well. You can paint your pathway and porch with a sand and paint mixture that gives you improved traction whenever it gets wet. Stay off the walkways when they are covered with snow and ice and have another person clear them as quickly as possible. Paint the steps and curb to alert you to their presence so you don't trip over them. Keep your walkway and entryway to your home well lit to help you always see where you stand walking. Make sure the path from your car to your house is free of debris, roots, plants, or anything else that could lead you to trip if you overlook it.

Interior Safety

Utilize common sense when working around your house and tend not to take risks. Always use a step stool and under no circumstances stand on chairs or other unstable objects. It is advisable to keep supplies within easy reach so you don't have to climb for them. Eliminate clutter and ensure electrical cords and phone lines are not strung across the floor where they could trip you. Repair carpeting that has raised areas that could catch the toe of your shoe and remove area rugs unless they may be made to lie flat and not slip. Wear non skid shoes or socks when walking around your home and if you need a device like a cane or walker, use it all the time.

Medical Safety

Correct medical attention is essential to lowering fall risk. Make sure you have the right prescription for your eyeglasses to help you see potential dangers in your path. Try not to consume alcoholic beverages simply because it can make your balance unsteady. If you do experience lightheadedness, stay seated until it passes. Avoid rising quickly when sitting to prevent dizzy spells. Talk about your medical condition and medications with your doctor so he or she will help you avoid problems that increase your risk of falling. Be active to maintain strong bones and muscles so if you do fall, your risk of serious injury is minimized.

There are numerous steps you can take to stay safe in your home so you can maintain your independence for longer. Don't take risks. Reducing fall risk is easy to do and could prevent needless suffering or permanent injury. It's also important to consider what you would do in the event of a fall. Possessing a home medical alert system in place can give you satisfaction because should you choose fall, you will get help at the push of a button.

Lessening Falls For The Aging parents Is Vital For Safe Independent Living

By: Danilo Orina

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