A fall can be serious. Every year, millions of older adults fall and injure themselves. What you may not realize, however, is that a fall can have dramatic consequences. Three million seniors are treated by emergency services every year due to injuries sustained from a fall. More than 9 in 10 hip fractures are the result of a fall. In older age, broken bones often take longer to mend and increase the likelihood of additional falls. It is interesting to note that most falls happen at home. Here are some of the most dangerous places in a home and how to avoid a fall.
The Stairs
If you confident and steady on your feet, stairs can be a dangerous place. Lack of confidence and fear are some of the most common reasons for falling down the stairs. Many older adults choose to install a chairlift to reduce this risk. It is important to develop a few safety habits to prevent falls on the stairs. Always hold the handrail. It not only provides a sense of safety when ascending or descending the stairs, it allows you to more easily catch yourself should you start to fall. Additionally, be sure to wear shoes with good traction to reduce the risk of slipping on the steps.
In the Bedroom
Surprisingly, seniors are often hurt in the bedroom. Again, if you are not steady on your feet, getting in and out of bed can be a challenge. Add to this the fact that some medications cause disorientation, dizziness and an ability to fully wake up when getting up to go the bathroom, the chances of a fall are increased. Consider adding a bed rail that protects you from falling out of bed. Bed rails also provide support, something to hang on to, when climbing in and out of bed, and this reduces fear.
In the Bathroom
A slippery bathroom is responsible for over 235,000 injuries each year. For seniors, 80% of all falls occur in the bathroom. Making the bathroom safer is a no-brainer. The addition of a non-slip mat in the shower or the bathtub can decrease risks significantly. If you are not comfortable standing, consider upgrading your shower to a more easily accessible cubicle. Add absorbing rugs on the floor outside the tub and shower to avoid the formation of slippery puddles.
In the Garden
Gardening is a wonderful hobby many seniors enjoy. However, it is important to wear shoes that provide stability and traction to avoid slipping in the mud, or on the wet grass. It may be helpful to reach out to a landscaping expert to discuss making your garden safer. Reducing the presence of mud by adding mulch, pavers or brick pathways will keep passageways safer. Alternatively, a gravel path will absorb rainwater and provide a solid ground for walking.
In the Entryway
The entryway is the most commonly overlooked area of the home. Yet, it also can be a dangerous place for falls. Any area that can accumulate water and mud from wet umbrellas and dirty shoes is a set up for a slip and fall. Consider adding an umbrella stand to capture the water on rainy days. A water-absorbent doormat will help you and your guests keep their shoes dry and clean before coming in the house.
Our tip: Add more light in the entryway to spot puddles that build up underneath the coat or shoe racks.
Keeping your home safe as you age will enable you to maintain your independence for as long as possible. Our home sweet home can hide many dangers, but taking preventive measures will help you minimize them. Many professional contractors are happy to discuss safety improvements for your home.
