Helpful Safety Tips for Seniors to Prevent a Fall

Helpful Safety Tips for Seniors to Prevent a Fall

It’s important for seniors to be aware of the potential dangers present in the home and prepare accordingly. A fall could lead to serious bodily damage and pain.  It is best to be diligent and prepare your home to eliminate danger of a fall.

Here are some safety tips to do in your home:

• Be aware of sudden changes in surfaces such as curbs or ramps that can cause a loss of balance and result in a fall.
• When walking in the dark, a person's balance can be worse.  Use a nightlight or have a lamp near the bed to improve safety when getting up at night.
• Install power failure lights to prevent walking in the dark. These simple devices can be installed in electrical outlets and are especially helpful near stairs.
• One cause of dizziness results from sudden changes in position. Clench your hands and wiggle toes prior to standing will reduce this form of dizziness.
• Remove throw rugs and damaged floor coverings to eliminate falls.
• Avoid tripping by removing clutter from all walkways.
• Keep a phone close by to make it easier to answer the phone.
• Rearrange furniture to provide a path for ease in walking. It’s best to have a straight walking path, with no furniture to walk around.
• Avoid use of extension cords by arranging furniture so that outlets are more easily available for lamps and appliances.

Bathroom Safety

• Leave a light on in your bathroom at night.
• Use recommended bath aids, securely installed on the walls of the bath/shower stall and on the sides of the toilet.
• Use of a tub seat or shower chair along with a handheld shower massage with extra-long cord may help avoid slips.
• If possible, bathe only when help is available.

Kitchen Safety

• Keep floors clean and uncluttered.
• Keep areas well lit.

Call Barbara Michaluk, Realtor and Authorized Leisure World Specialist at 240-506-2434 to discuss how much your home is worth in Leisure World of Maryland or to schedule a tour of the community.