One out of every three seniors experiences a fall every year. Falls become more dangerous with age, with around 20 percent of all injury-related deaths among seniors related to a fall. One out of every five falls causes a serious injury such as a broken bone, head injury, or fractured hip, and falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to increase safety in your elderly relative’s home and reduce the chances of a fall. Here are a few suggestions.
Bathroom Improvements
Bathrooms can be very dangerous due to slippery, hard surfaces and few objects to grasp onto. Most falls in the bathroom occur while getting into or out of the shower or tub, getting up from the toilet, or attempting to use a counter or towel bar for balance. Increase bathroom safety with these tips:
- Install grab bars near the toilet and shower or tub. Watch where your loved one normally holds onto when moving in the bathroom and choose the best place to install grab bars.
- Add a shower chair for stability if your loved one has difficulty balancing.
- Add nonslip mats to the shower and bathtub along with a nonslip rug outside of the shower to avoid slips on wet tiles or flooring.
- Install a raised toilet seat if your loved one has difficulty lowering or raising him or herself from a seated position.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Potomac families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.
Kitchen Improvements
These safety tips can reduce the risk of falls and injury in the kitchen:
- Make sure there’s sufficient lighting around the work areas and entrances so your loved one can avoid bumping into objects and falling at night.
- Keep sharp objects like knives stored properly.
- Wipe up spills immediately.
- Store heavy items in the lowest cupboards and drawers, except those used frequently. Heavy items used often should be left on the counter.
- Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach in the kitchen.
Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust home care professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she manages an illness and performs the daily tasks of living.
Around the Home
Your loved one’s home may have other trip hazards. Here are a few general tips for around the house:
- All stairs should be well lit. Consider installing nightlights throughout the home.
- Install solid handrails on both sides of stairways.
- Keep walkways and steps outside the home free of ice, snow, and crumbling concrete.
- Keep shoes, plants, cords, and boxes out of walkways.
- Avoid clutter in bedrooms, hallways, and living rooms.
- Avoid using throw rugs or use rugs with nonskid mats.
- Make sure all cords are hidden behind furniture.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. Potomac families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care today to learn more about our premier in-home care.
