6 Ways To Reduce Fall Risks
Falls are a common risk for seniors and those living alone. We recently reviewed 8 Key Slip and Fall Statistics in Australia and New Zealand that show how falls are the leading contributor to hospitalisation and injury cases in both countries. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely avoid the possibility of falls. Instead, we can find ways to reduce fall risks to make sure that our loved ones are safe in the comforts of their home. Check out some tips below.
Declutter the home
Did you know that the top cause of falls is slipping or tripping on the same level? This is a fascinating fact that we covered in the previous blog about fall statistics we mentioned above. While most would think that falls happen on ladders or stairs, falls on the same level are proven to be riskier. There are many reasons for this, including clutter on the floor. That’s why it’s essential to keep the home tidy and to always make sure that items are in their proper places and not scattered on the floor, which are potential fall hazards.
Remove fall hazards
Speaking of hazards, it’s also a great idea to inspect each part of the home and remove slipping or tripping hazards. This includes slippery throw rugs and carpets. You can replace these items with non-slip alternatives. There may also be loose floorboards that need repairing or replacing to prevent them from causing tripping accidents.
Install brighter lights
One of the reasons people trip or slip is that they did not see the potential hazard in front of them due to insufficient lighting. A suitable home for seniors is a well-lit home with lights installed in potentially risky areas such as the stairs or hallway. If agreed by loved ones, it’s also recommended to install night lights in the bedroom. In addition, nightlights in the bathroom provide better and safer navigation at night too.
Wear non-slip socks or shoes
Wearing socks or loose slippers are not recommended at home since these can also be hazards. But that is only when they are slippery. The best option is to make sure loved ones use non-slip socks or shoes that will help them navigate their home safely with reduced risks of falling because of what they’re wearing.
Rearrange furniture
For this tip, you don’t need to conduct a huge makeover. What’s important here is that furniture at home is rearranged in a way that will show a clear pathway for older loved ones. This allows them to navigate their home easily. At the same, it keeps them safe from possible injuries caused by the sharp edges of some of their furniture.
Encourage seniors to stay active.
In a study conducted in France, researchers found that regular exercise reduces falls among seniors significantly. This is because exercise improves balance and strengthens the muscles. With stronger muscles, older loved ones can catch themselves better at the beginning of a fall. Overall, they have a better reaction time and coordination when paired with stronger muscles and bones.
So, encourage seniors to stay active when they can. It can be as simple as taking a walk for a few minutes every day or signing up for an exercise group where they can also socialise.
We hope that these tips will help you make your and your loved one’s homes safer from falls. However, much as we try to avoid them, we should also remember that falls will always be possible. So your next step is to ensure that loved ones will always have access to help when it does happen. For this, you can count on our leading range of fall detection pendants.
Fall detectors were created mainly to address increased risks of falls for seniors, persons with disabilities and lone workers. Its primary goal is to ensure that loved ones will always have access to help if they fall.
At Tunstall, we offer leading fall detection pendants that automatically alert our 24/7 Customer Care Centre when a fall is detected. Wearers can also call for assistance directly whenever they need. Contact our team today for more information.
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