Photo: Storyblocks
Falls are the number one cause of injuries for senior citizens. That means preventing falls in your household should be at the top of your priority list. Here are 6 easy tips for preventing senior citizen falls and to keep your home safe.
The bathroom is one of the slipperiest places in the house. You easily can add high-grip rubber mats on the shower floor, and bath mats on the rest of the floors so slips don’t happen. Other items like grab bars, shower chairs, sliding transfer benches, long shower handles, and commodes can make life safer too.
Avoid wearing loosely fitting shoes since they can be a tripping hazard. If you like rugs in your house, try using double-sided tape to secure them. Otherwise, it’s best to get rid of the rugs altogether.
Clutter can pose a big risk. Keep the floors in your house clean and remove any items that could be dangerous. Also, bedroom bed rails can also help move from lying down to standing safely. These also prevent falls out of bed during the nighttime.
Make sure you have installed stair rails that are sturdy. If they aren’t sturdy, you’ll want to repair or replace them before they become a problem. Stairlifts might also be an option for those who may not be able to make the climb without assistance.
Walkers, rollators, and canes can help while moving between rooms. These can minimize the potential for tripping and falling too. If more help is necessary, a scooter or a power wheelchair is a great option. They can easily navigate around tight corners and narrow spaces.
Schedule regular health checkups and talk to your doctor about keeping your home safe. Make sure you know what prescriptions and over-the-counter medications you’re taking and if they cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or disorientation. And finally, regular exercise can keep your core and leg muscles active.
Preventing senior citizen falls can be challenging. As Utah’s largest independently-owned medical equipment provider since 1997, Alpine Home Medical and its qualified and caring staff can provide you with the best service to get your home safe for seniors.
