Our homes are where life happens – we make memories, cherish moments, and, well, sometimes stumble. Many of us don’t really consider how we navigate our home spaces until there is a fall.
Soft lighting or even just a pet around can suddenly make home become a risky area.
For seniors, parents, and anyone who sees those four walls and a roof as home, it’s important to make sure your place is safe. Check out these simple Don’t Fall 101 tips to help keep your home safe from falls.
Understanding the Risks
Did you know that in the United States alone, more than three million people over the age of 65 are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries each year?
Hidden behind these numbers are tales of life-altering fractures, head injuries, and a notable decline in quality of life. The usual suspects in these scenarios include obstructions in pathways, poorly lit spots, loose rugs, and those sneaky, steep steps that challenge our balance.
Tips for Fall Prevention
Now that we recognize the risks, let’s explore how to turn our homes into havens for safe passage. No need for an interior overhaul; a few simple adjustments are all it takes to create a safe space.
1. Light the Path
Light isn’t just about getting rid of shadows; it’s like a guiding star for your home. To keep trips and stumbles at bay, make sure every corner is well lit. Think smart—focus on entryways, stairs, and the places you walk the most. Having light switches at both ends of a hallway may not be the trendiest, but they’re a win for safety.
2. Rethink Rugs and Carpets
Got a rug that surprises you with a sneaky wrinkle sometimes? No worries! You don’t have to give up your decor. Just use rug tape or non-slip backings to keep it in check, preventing unexpected slips and trips. Well-applied tape keeps the rug flat and it stays flat despite traffic.
3. Say Hello to Grab Bars
Grab bars are the heroes of home safety. They’re not only for fancy hotel bathrooms; anywhere you need a bit of stability can benefit. Bathrooms, showers, and spots near seats are great places for a strategically placed grab bar. Remember, they’re not just decorative. Grab bars should be securely fastened to walls.
4. Non-Slip Mats in the Bathroom
Bathrooms are the perfect spot for slips and slides. Remedy with some non-slip mats in and around tubs, showers, toilets, and sinks for a foot-friendly traction boost.
5. Staircase Vigilance
Every step is an opportunity for safety. Staircases should be clear of clutter and have secure handrails. If the going gets a bit tough, consider adding handrails on both sides for a safer climb. Don’t forget to secure stairway carpets and runners, as any looseness is an automatic risk.
6. De-Clutter
Rid your hallways and traffic areas of clutter. When this is done, halls and paths are wider and more inviting. Walkers should not strike or brush into objects when traveling through the home as this can disrupt balance.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, it’s undeniable that a few simple adjustments can significantly transform our homes into safe places to walk.
Through implementing practical tools like bright lighting, rug tape, grab bars, non-slip mats, maintaining staircase vigilance, and eliminating clutter, we’re not just safeguarding our physical wellbeing, but also nurturing a sense of serenity for all who step within.
Truly, the essence of a home lies in its ability to offer security and love in every corner. By being proactive in our approach to safety, we’re investing in a future where every moment at home is cherished and secure.
