Minimizing Falls in the Home

Trips and falls can have serious repercussions for seniors and with that in mind, the focus for the family and the senior himself or herself should be on fall prevention. Here are a few things that you can do to minimize the risk of falls:

Replace area rugs with wall-to-wall carpeting

Area rugs pose a hazard unless they are well adhered to the floor and do not have edges or corners that can come loose. Use double-sided tape and check the tape frequently to assess whether or not the tape needs to be replaced.

Make certain that there is adequate lighting throughout the home and especially on stairs

Dark rooms and hallways can be disorientating and can lead to a fall. Wall sconces, lighting along the baseboards, and lamps that cast light into the room and not just on a piece of furniture can help to reduce any chance of tripping or falling.

Organize the kitchen so that items that are used every day are convenient and in easy reach

Every day pots, pans, and dishes should be easily accessible and not require climbing a stepladder or bending down to access lower cabinets. Pantry closets and cupboards should be organized in the same manner with frequently used food stored on shelves that require little or no climbing or reaching.

Use Alexa for everyday tasks

Alexa can be a great help when used for everyday tasks such as turning on the lights or turning the heating or air-conditioning on or off, thereby removing the need for the senior to do these things by himself or herself.

Keep things tidy

Items left on the stairs and floor can cause a person to fall. Make certain that there is a “place for everything” and dispose of items that are no longer needed and hence just contribute to the clutter. Additionally, telephone, television, and other cords and wires should be coiled up and placed under furniture and out of the way.

Have a cane or walker readily available

If your senior loved one has challenges with their balance it is a good idea to keep a cane or walker within reach. Sometimes getting up from a chair or sofa can be difficult and cause the senior to lose their balance and fall.

Remember that a Right at Home Nassau Suffolk companion can be at home with a senior that needs help with their daily routine. Just give us a call or contact us online and set up an appointment with us today.