Falls are a major concern for seniors that are living independently at home. Even a simple stumble can have serious consequences, which can affect their mobility and health. But don’t worry, here are some precautionary steps you can take to minimize the risk of falls in your home.
Assessing Home Safety
Conducting a thorough assessment of your home’s safety is the first step to prevent falls. Let’s break down some of the key areas to focus on:
Bathroom Safety:
Bathrooms are a hotspot for slips and falls because they usually have slippery surfaces. Grab bars must be installed near the shower, toilet, and bathtub, because they will provide stability when entering and exiting the bathroom. Non-slip mat is another option which can be applied on the bathtub and shower floor to prevent accidental slips. And a shower chair gives comfort and safety, and can offer extra support during bathing.
Kitchen Precautions:
To prevent falls, it is essential to have a well lit kitchen with clear pathways. Keep your kitchen clutter free and secure any loose rugs to avoid tripping hazards. Instead of utilizing high cabinets, opt for lower shelves or invest in a step stool which is sturdy and has handrails for places which may be hard to reach.
Flooring Fixes:
One of the potential hazards at any home is uneven surfaces or worn out carpets. You should consider replacing worn out carpets, and install non-slip strips on hard flooring like tiles or polished wood. These simple additions are a must especially for high traffic areas because they can greatly improve traction.
Stair Safety:
If your house has stairs, make sure that you have installed secure handrails on both sides for added support. And for extra traction add non-slip treads to each step. A stairlift can be a game changer for seniors living in multi-level homes, they can reduce the risk of falls significantly.
Brighten Up with Lighting:
Good lighting can prevent falls, especially during night time nature’s calls. Make sure that the lighting in your home is perfect, particularly in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Installing nightlights in these areas can prevent stumbles in low-light conditions by illuminating your path.
Small Changes, Big Impact:
You can greatly reduce the risk of falls in your home by making these simple adjustments. At 1st Care Community, we put a lot of emphasis on your safety and independence. Stay tuned for more valuable tips to help you stay organized and informed about your care for senior loved ones.
Learn More about our In home services in Brisbane and Gold Coast. Remember, your home should be a safe place where you can enjoy your independence peacefully. Let’s work together to achieve it!
