Falls Prevention Checklist. A senior endures a fall every 12 seconds. Of these fall victims, 67% of them suffer from life-threatening injuries if they aren’t found within 72 hours. So then, the best way to combat injuries to the elderly from accidental falls. is a safer home. Therefore, it is better to prevent them from happening in the first place. Also, in this falls prevention guide, I’ll give you tips for eliminating the most common causes of falls. And falls can happen anywhere at any time. But, we can help reduce the likelihood of trips and slips that lead to falls. Thus, minimizing the risk of fall related injuries. Finally, follow the tips on this list to reduce fall hazards in the home.
How can we prevent falls at home?
Falls Prevention Checklist. Here are the top 5 tips to preventing falls at home
- Remove all extraneous clutter in your house.
- Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.
- 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.
- Ensure that carpets are firmly attached to the stairs.
- Do not stand on a chair to reach things.
- Store frequently used objects where you can reach them easily.
Outside your home
- Paint the edges of outdoor steps and any steps that are especially narrow or are higher or lower than the rest.
- Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction.
- Keep outdoor walkways clear and well-lit.
- Clear snow and ice from entrances and sidewalks in winter.
Proper Lighting
- 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 light switches at both ends of stairs and halls. Install handrails on both sides of stairs.
- Turn on the lights when you go into the house at night.
Bathroom
- Add grab bars in shower, tub and toilet areas.
- Use nonslip adhesive strips or a mat in shower or tub.
- Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower.
- Consider using an elevated toilet seat.
Walking assistance
- Use helping devices, such as canes, as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Wear nonslip, low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly.
- Avoid walking around in stocking feet.
And don’t forget These!
- Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over-the-counter drugs, can make you drowsy, dizzy and unsteady.
- Discuss safe amounts of alcohol intake with your physician.
- Have your hearing and eyesight tested.
- Inner ear problems can affect balance.
- Vision problems make it difficult to see potential hazards.
- Exercise regularly to improve muscle flexibility, strength, and balance.
- Talk to your healthcare professional about exercise programs that are right for you.
- If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit down or stay seated until your head clears.
- Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.
In Conclusion
Falls Prevention Checklist. Health professionals are reporting ever increasing numbers of serious falls, that involve older adults. Many call it a fall epidemic, take a little time to ensure your home is safe to prevent you becoming a statistic. One fall can leave you devastated and take away you independence or in some cases your life. So just make sure you follow these tips to create a safer home environment for yourself.
Important Note *
Remember that everyone is different, and it is ultimately YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find what your body responds to. So please do your due diligence before trying anything new, including getting Medical Advice to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
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