Did you know nearly 1/3 of all people over the age of 65 fall each year and that figure increases to 50% by age 80. For seniors, falls in and around the home are the most frequently occurring accidents. Falls are the 7th leading cause of death in people over the age of 65. What can you do to make your home safer?
Have a lamp or light switch that you can easily reach without getting out of bed. Use night lights in the bedroom, bathroom, and hallways. Keep a flashlight handy. Have a light switch at both end of stairs and halls. Install handrails on both sides of stairs. Consider installing a home stair lift. Straight stair lifts, curved stair lifts, vertical platform lifts, outdoor stair lifts, and even ramps are simple solutions to keep seniors happier and safer longer in their homes.
Turn on the lights when you get into the house at night. Add grab bars in shower, tub and toilet areas. Use bath mats with suction cups. Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower. Consider an elevated toilet seat. Wear non-slip, low heeled shoes or slippers that fit snuggly. Don’t walk around in stocking feet. Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip ,or attach non-slip backing. Paint the edges of outdoor steps and any steps that are especially narrow or are higher or lower than the rest. Paint outdoor stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction. Review your medication with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over-the –counter, can make you drowsy, dizzy and unsteady.
This Caring Minute has been brought to you by APG Eldercare Services, improving quality of life with dignity and respect. Call us at 610-392-0667 or visit our website at www.apgeldercare.com