14 Tips to Cut Your Risk of Falls

Falls cause more unnecessary anguish, pain, inconvenience, and complications for seniors than most people would imagine. In a typical year, in the U.S., one out of every three older adults reports that they have taken an unexpected tumble. With associated complications, many of the falls tragically devastate otherwise healthy lifestyles.

Here are a few simple suggestions from the experts on how to avoid acrobatic tumbles in your home.

Exercise:

Gain muscle strength, better balance, and coordination through a monitored therapeutic exercise program. Take the initiative of asking your physician for a referral to a home physical therapist, who can customize balance retraining and strengthening exercises for you.

Remove tripping hazards:

Clear clutter, electrical cords, phone cords, throw rugs, and oversized furniture from areas where you walk.

Clean up puddles from liquids and food spills, promptly.

Turn on the lights:

Whenever moving around thru the house, be sure there is adequate lighting along the way to see any hazards on the floor in front of you. Night lights are very useful safety devises.

Have your eyes checked:

Keep you eye glass prescription up to date. Glaucoma and cataracts can also make it hard to see hazards in your path. Also keep eye glasses clean.

Use Safety Devices such as walkers and canes, recommended by your doctor.

Add gadgets and gizmos:

Grab bars for outside of the shower or bathtub, tub benches, elevated toilet seats with arms, can be purchased in a variety of price and style ranges from the basic to the luxury. Discuss your options with a trusted Medical Supplier such as House of Medical Equipment.

Keep frequently used items in cupboards and cabinets, where they can be easily reached:

An occupational therapist can assist with teaching patients simple safety strategies for reaching and grabbing items, while avoiding the hazards of climbing for items that are out of reach. Ask your doctor for a referral for home Occupational Therapy for safety evaluation, adaptive strategies, and techniques for regaining independence with your activities of daily living.

Beware of flowing nightgowns and long clothing which may drag on the floor, beneath your feet or tangle up while sleeping.

Use non slip mats in the shower and non-skid carpet on floors:

Double sided

Tape may also help secure rugs or mats in place.

Stair Precautions:

Be sure railings on stairs are strong and secure. Add

Reflective tape on each step. Be sure stairs are well lit; and clutter is removed.

Have a doctor or pharmacist review all medications including natural
Herbs and vitamins, to look for potential interactions or side effects such as Grogginess or dizziness.
Wear sensible shoes or boots with non skid soles.