Millions of falls occur every year in the population aged 65 and older, and about 60% of those falls happen inside the home.  This is one of the leading causes of injury for the older adult population and those who are aged 60 and older have a greater risk of dying from a fall.  Look here for more statistics related to falls.  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/falls

Reducing falls at home is paramount in lowering the risk for injury.  If you have fallen in your home in the last six months and all underlying medical reasons have been ruled out, you should consider evaluating your environment.  You can also opt for a professional to conduct an in-home safety screening.

If you have been living in your home for many years, you may not even realize that your environment could have changes over the years.  For example, we tend to gather more items as the years go on and this could cause some clutter in your home.  This can contribute to an increased risk in falling.  

Follow the 10 home safety tips below to create a safer environment.

1. Keep walking pathways open and clutter free. 

It should be easy to walk around your furniture and don’t store items on the floor.  If you use an assistive device (i.e., walker), it should be able to clear all furniture, walls, etc. with ease.

2. Place items that you use regularly close by and within easy reach.

If you have a favorite recliner, keep important items like the phone and remote control on a table directly next to the recliner. You don’t want to rush to try and find a ringing phone.

3. Use a nightlight, especially for the pathway to the bathroom.

When you wake in the middle of the night to use the restroom, your balance and thinking may not be 100%, so you want to be able to clearly see the walking path.

4. Make sure throw rugs are secure and remove rugs that are not.

Rugs that are loose may slip out from under your feet when you step on them.  Assistive devices, may get caught on the rug, increasing the chance of falls.  Reducing falls at home may require some changes in the aethestics of your home.

5. Place handrails on both sides of the stairs and make sure steps are in good condition.

Stairs should be even with non-slip surfaces.  Handrails provide additional support.

6. Keep items in the shower close by and within easy reach.

Avoid bending or reaching too far for items such as soap. The surface is wet, and you could lose balance twisting or turning. Install a non-slip shower floor or mat.

7. Maintain carpet and other flooring in good condition.

Floor surfaces should be even.  Unraveled carpet or broken tile changes the floor depth, increasing the chance for tripping.

8.  Do not run electrical cords or other hazards across the floors.

You may think you are aware of where the cord is laying on the floor, but everyone gets distracted at times.

9. Clean up spills right away.

We all know wet surfaces are slippery and quick clean up is a successful way in reducing falls at home.

10. Utilize assistive devices such as a shower chair or grabs bars when appropriate.  

Reducing falls at home is important if you want to remain happy, healthy and safe while aging in place.  If you aren’t sure if your home is free of falls risk, hire a professional to assess your needs and level of functioning.  There may be times when reducing falls at home requires a professional to install assistive devices.  

Interested in an in-home falls risk assessment?  Please contact Wellness Strategies Group for information. https://wellnessstrategiesgroup.com/contact/