FALLS KILL; Part 4; Are YOU safe at home?

FALL FACTS: A fall is defined as a sudden uncontrollable descent. Every 19 minutes, an elderly person dies by a fall. One in four people over the age of 65 years old fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury among those 65 and older.

The most profound effect of falling is the loss of functioning associated with

independent living.

The good news is that falls are preventable. This series of blogs will help you identify your risk and teach you simple techniques to implement in your own home to prevent you from becoming another statistic.

IDENTIFYING YOUR RISK

Many factors contribute to falling. Risk factors can be identified and modified to help prevent falls. Talk with your doctor about medications and vitamin deficiencies that may increase your risk. Take action as this blog series will focus on simple assessments for balance, strength, walking and environmental modifications you can implement at home to reduce your risk.

A professional physical or occupational therapist can identify the risks in your home and give you simple, cost effective solutions to minimize any safety hazards. There are several things you can do to improve the safety of your home environment.

GENERAL SPACES

• Lighting-Install proper lighting throughout the home by first changing lightbulbs and making sure all fixtures are working properly. Consider installing hallway lights that have photosensors to light pathways for trips to the bathroom at night.

  • It’s safest to have uniform lighting in a room. Add lighting to dark areas. Hang lightweight curtains or shades to reduce glare.

  • Paint a contrasting color on the top edge of all steps so you can see the stairs better. For example, use a light color paint on dark wood. Or use a painters tape if you don't want a permanent solution

• Reduce clutter-keep pathways clean and free of throw rugs, clutter and other items that may cause a trip, slip or fall

• Stairs-ensure a secure handrail is present for stair climbing to the next level or to enter and exit the home

BATHROOMS

• Toilet-Most falls happen in bathrooms.

  • A raised toilet seat can help you get on and off the toilet easier and can be purchased here

  • If all you need is armrests, that is a simple attachment and can be purchased here

  • You can also combo a raised toilet seat with armrests for the best of both worlds and improved safety in that bathroom

• Showers and bathtubs can be slippery when wet. Consider these items to modify the bathroom to reduce fall risk

  • Handheld shower head

  • bath bench/chair

  • grab bars

  • non slip mat

• Reduce clutter-keep pathways clean and free of throw rugs, clutter and other items that may cause a trip, slip or fall

• Stairs ensure a secure handrail is present for stair climbing to the next level or to enter and exit the home

• walker trays and baskets are excellent items to help loved ones carry items hands free through out their homes

• PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS Ramps, Stair lifts, grab bars, lightbulbs, raised toilet seats, hand held shower head, bath bench/chair, non slip mats, armrests, contrasting painters tape, friction tape, hand rails, walker trays, bags, bed cane,

• HOME SAFETY VISIT (

• HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST (Workbook)