Houses should be where elderly retirees feel safest and most secure. One aspect of safety that needs focus is the risk of slips, trips, and falls in senior homes. These incidents can lead to severe injuries and complications. To ensure a safer living environment for older adults, we address common causes and offer tips to minimize hazards.
1. Accidents on Slippery Surfaces
Slick floors are one of the most common injury causes. Various sources, including spilled liquids, freshly mopped flooring, or polish used on hardwood, can turn otherwise safe walkways into potential hazards. You can minimize the risk by promptly cleaning up spills, using rubber mats where water may collect, and avoiding high-gloss polish.
2. Injuries Due to Inadequate Lighting
Dim hallways, staircases, and bathrooms can be a major trip hazard. Shadows can hide obstacles and lack of light can obscure floor level changes. Improving brightness with simple measures like installing higher-wattage bulbs, motion-sensor lights, or nightlights can make a significant difference in enhancing visibility and safety.
3. Tripping in Cluttered Spaces
Cluttered places often present another challenge for elderly safety. Everyday items left around, like magazines, footwear, or cables, can easily become tripping hazards. Maintaining a clean, organized environment is essential to preventing accidents. Encourage regular tidying of living quarters and ensure commonly used items are stored safely away from walkways.
4. Mishaps Due to Unstable Furniture
Furnishings that are wobbly or unsteady can contribute to falls in senior homes if leaned on for support. Regular checks should be performed to ensure furniture is sturdy and secure. Repair or replace unstable pieces and ensure they can withstand elderly loved ones.
5. Tripping on Loose Rugs and Carpets
Floor coverings and carpets, while adding a touch of comfy decor, can potentially cause an accident if not secured properly. Make sure mats have a grippy backing and carpeted rooms are firmly secured to the floor. Regular checks for frayed edges or areas where carpets have come unattached can avoid tripping incidents.
6. Injury Due to Uneven Floors and Surfaces
Uneven surfaces, like bumps in carpeting, warped floorboards, or irregular outdoor paving, can catch older adults off guard and trip them. It is wise to regularly inspect floors and walkways and rectify any uneven patches as soon as possible.
7. Falling Because of Improper Footgear
While it may seem trivial, improper footwear can lead to slips and falls. Not having the right size, worn out, or slip-ons can be dangerous. Encourage retirees to put on properly fitted shoes with textured soles indoors or outside.
8. Slipping Due to Lack of Handrails and Grab Bars
Handrails and grab bars provide additional support for older adults. They are especially beneficial in staircases, hallways, bathrooms, or bedrooms for help getting in and out of bed. Installing them can offer stability and prevent injury.
Senior Helpers Can Help Prevent Falls in Senior Homes
We provide a wide range of comprehensive, in-home elderly care services. If you live in the Dallas, Richardson, or Farmers Branch areas, contact us anytime at Senior Helpers of Greater Dallas. We are here to enhance the quality of life for our elderly retirees and provide them with the safe, comfortable living environment they deserve.