Is your senior loved one's home safe from tripping and falling hazards? Falls are a leading cause of injury for seniors. Common causes include slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered pathways. According to the CDC, one in four older adults falls each year, and these falls can lead to broken bones, head injuries, long-term hospital stays, and even death. Caregivers play a big role in fall prevention. By making some simple yet effective changes at home, you can help keep your loved ones safe.
Essential Home Modifications
Here are some easy and affordable weekend projects that can significantly improve a home's safety for seniors.
Install Handrails
Handrails play a critical role in preventing falls. They provide support and stability, particularly in areas where slipping is more likely, such as stairs and bathrooms. Key places to install handrails include along staircases, next to toilets, and in the shower or bathtub.
Improve Lighting
Good lighting can dramatically reduce fall risks. Poor lighting makes it hard for seniors to see obstacles that could lead to a fall. To improve home lighting, use bright, non-glaring bulbs, install nightlights in bathrooms and hallways, and place lamps in high-traffic areas like the living room and kitchen. Make sure light switches are easily located. Motion- or voice-activated lighting is especially beneficial for seniors.
Create Storage Solutions
Make sure seniors can organize their belongings and keep them within easy reach. Clearly label shelves, baskets, drawers, and cupboards. Make it easy to keep belongings off the floor but accessible without needing a ladder or step stool.
Remove Tripping Hazards
Tripping hazards are a common cause of falls in the home. Common offenders include loose rugs, electrical cords, and cluttered walkways. To make the home safer, secure rugs with non-slip backing (or remove them altogether), keep electrical cords out of walkways, and declutter areas like hallways and living rooms.
The Importance of Regular Home Assessments
A checklist can keep you organized as you make these essential home modifications. Revisit it regularly! This proactive approach is a key aspect of fall prevention.
Conducting regular home safety assessments has numerous benefits. These evaluations can identify potential risks before they become serious problems. To perform a thorough home assessment, walk through each room to identify risks like loose rugs or poor lighting. Check high-traffic areas to ensure they are free from obstacles. Test handrails and grab bars to make sure they are secure. Don't forget to evaluate outside spaces like driveways and yards for hazards such as uneven pavement or debris.
Thrive at Home With Senior Helpers
Are you ready to get started? Clutter Awareness Week is the perfect time to take action and implement these changes. The time you spend now can save a senior's independence.
If you or your senior loved one would benefit from friendly drop-in visits, assistance with meal preparation and light housework, and even transportation to and from important appointments, contact us today at Senior Helpers Winston Salem Greensboro. We proudly serve residents of Kernersville, Greensboro, Reidsville, and the greater Guilford County area, and we look forward to meeting you.