As we age, the chances of experiencing a fall in our home increases substantially. Unfortunately, these falls often result in injuries which may require a trip to the emergency room, hospitalization, or frequent visits to physical therapy or seminar medical offices. Common injuries associated with falls include wrist, arm, ankle and hip trauma and/or head injuries.
So before you take that next step across a cluttered room, take some easy steps to ensure your safety in the home, or the safety of your parents or elderly family members and friends.
According to the National Institute on Aging, 60 percent of falls happen in the home. Typical problem areas include stairways, hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms. And in these cases, a little common sense will go a long way to ensuring safety. For example:
- Have secure handrails on both sides of staircases.
- Ensure good lighting on staircases and throughout the home.
- Keep rooms and hallways tidy and free of floor clutter.
- Ensure that all carpets are firmly attached to the floor, and don’t use throw rugs that can move or slide.
- Mount grab bars near toilets and in tubs/showers.
- Install night lights.
- Keep electric cords and wires well away from walking paths.
- Never stand on a chair or table to reach something high.
- Consider wearing a medical alarm that will summon emergency assistance if you do experience a fall.
Falling can happen to anyone, and while this advice is geared toward seniors, it is beneficial for individuals of all ages. So the next time you have a few minutes, take a look around your home and see if it passes the fall test. And if you have elderly relatives, be sure to do the same in their home or apartment. Either way, you’re going to be a statistic. So why not take steps to be on the statistical side of those who have reduced their risk of falling and reside in a home where safety improvements have been that dramatically decrease the odds of falling and fall-related injuries.