How To Fall-Proof Your Home

I read an interesting article in a local newspaper that most elders were prone to falls and accidents in and around the house. Most falls lead to hip fractures with the elders being seriously ill and losing their independence; their dependence leads to a fall in their confidence and self-esteem.

It was still more interesting to note that injury and accidental death accounted for most of the deaths of elders above 65 years of age. This could be avoided if we make simple changes inside and outside our homes to avoid falls.  

Ways to make the indoors of the house fall-proof: 

It is most important to avoid the clutter on the floor like scatter rugs that could slide easily and make one trip and fall. It is also necessary to ensure that the carpet is tacked at home and is secured with a double sided tape or a non-skid backing. Also avoid carpets of a texture that could trip an elder who is prone to shuffling.

Ensure that the floor of the house is waxed with non-skid wax. It is best to use non–skid strips on the floor surface of steps, in addition to avoiding materials like tiles and highly polished surfaces that are slippery. 

Ensure that the storage areas to keep items are within easy reach; If you must use step stools make sure you get one that is wide and sturdy and has a handrail.

Most falls occur when the room is cluttered and elders knock against furniture; it would help to have less furniture and also to move the furniture so that there is free movement around the chairs and tables. It would also help to install overhead lighting that can be turned on by a wall switch and eliminate lamps that may be difficult to access.

Eliminate falls by keeping electrical wires and cords off the floor and keep a bright lamp and flashlight at the elder’s bedside. Ensure that spills are cleaned up immediately and the floors are kept as dry as possible to avoid the elder from falling.  

Most elders are prone to falls and accidents in the bathroom, so it would help to install grab bars in the bathroom for easy access near the toilet, tub, or shower. In addition it would also help to install non-skid mats near the tub and shower.

The lights in the staircase and hallways another prone area for falls and accidents need to be upgraded. Next it is also essential to make sure the railing on the stairs is anchored safely and securely for hand support.

Next the elder must have access to a cordless phone that he/she can use it to easily answer or call for assistance.

 

Ways to make the outdoor of the house fall-proof:

It would help a lot to ensure that the icy paths and walkways are well salted or sanded especially in winter, along with making sure that the exterior of the house is well lighted for easy visibility.  

It would also help to install sturdy railings on the deck and ramps and to make sure to repair the walkways if they are jagged or have rough spots, broken tiles or other hazards that may trip elders.   

It would help to wear shoes or boots with rubber soles for traction, in addition to considering new activities like tai chi that would help improve overall strength and balance of elders.

These valuable tips would help avoid falls and fractures in elders and make a great difference to their confidence and self-esteem.  

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