How Seniors Can Prevent Falls in Their Homes

Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors. There are often some serious consequences such as broken bones, head injuries and even death in some cases. 

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As you age and risk of falling increases due to a combination of health factors, the environment and physical decline. However, there are some protective steps that you can take as a senior to reduce the risk of falling in your home. 

If you make a few simple changes to your environment, you will have a safe space in which you can live in confidence.

Remove Home Hazards

A cluttered home is a significant risk factor for falls. As a senior you should regularly check your living space for any hazards. Furniture, electrical cords and loose rugs can cause obstructions in your walking path. You should place non-slip mats or rugs with resistant backings on your floor in order to keep the space safe. 

You should also consider installing grab bars in your bathroom, shower areas and near toilets. This can bring about some extra stability.

Improve Lighting

Poor lighting is another common contributor to falls. To see potential hazards especially at nightfall seniors should always ensure that their homes are well lit. This is especially important for bathrooms, stairs and hallways. You can install motion sensor lights as an option in these areas that are often used. 

This way you can conserve energy but still have the lights up and ready when you need it. It’s also important that seniors have night lights in their bedrooms and along corridors. 

This will help to prevent night time falls when they have to make those trips to the bathroom.

Use Assistive Devices

For seniors with mobility issues, using assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or crutches can significantly reduce the risk of falls. It’s important to choose the right assistive device based on the individual’s needs and to ensure that the device is in good condition. 

Seniors should also be trained on how to properly use these devices to maximize their effectiveness. Additionally seniors should have personal medical alarm technology on them at all times so that if they do fall they can alert someone and get help as quickly as possible.

Exercise and Strength Training

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. Regular exercise particularly strength training and balance exercises are going to improve your muscle strength, coordination and flexibility. 

Activities such as swimming and walking can help to keep you fit and reduce your risk of falling. Make sure that you consult your health care provider before you begin any exercise program. 

This is going to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your health level.

There’s a lot that you need to keep in mind if you are going to prevent falls in your home. All you have to do is be diligent and make some changes for the better. Once you have done this you can expect that your home environment will be safer.