Tips for a Safer Home Environment (& some not so fun data on falls)
As we age, the risk of falls increases, but there are steps we can take to create a safer home environment. Falls can result in serious injuries, in fact, more than 95% of hip fractures are a result of a fall (cdc.gov). These types of injuries can significantly impact our independence and quality of life. Here are some tips to help prevent falls and promote safety at home:
Remove Tripping Hazards: Keep pathways clear of clutter, loose rugs, and electrical cords. Remove any tripping hazards to create a safer environment.
Proper Lighting: Ensure that all areas of your home are well-lit, especially stairways, hallways, and entrances. Use night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways to help navigate at night.
Install Grab Bars and Handrails: Install grab bars in bathrooms near toilets and showers, and handrails on both sides of staircases to provide support and stability.
Secure Carpets and Rugs (or remove them all together 😀): Use non-slip mats or double-sided tape to secure rugs and carpets to prevent them from slipping.
Wear Proper Footwear: Wear supportive, properly fitting shoes both inside and outside the house to reduce the risk of slipping or tripping.
Use Assistive Devices: If needed, use a walker or cane to provide additional support and stability when walking. A therapist can provide input if you are unsure what support would be best for you.
Stay Active: Engage in regular exercise to improve balance, strength, and flexibility, which can help prevent falls.
Regular Eye Exams: Have regular eye exams to ensure proper vision, as poor vision can increase the risk of falls.
Medication Management: Review your medications with your healthcare provider to minimize side effects and interactions that could affect your balance or alertness.
Below I have included some data and facts around falls in the United States gathered from the CDC. The information is unsettling, and what I have personally found most concerning is that the rate has only increased over the years. Multiple factors can cause falls in older adults and there’s multiple things that can be done to prevent them. My hope is that with age-in-place services, we can decrease these risks and strive for better outcomes for our aging populations.
