Falls are a serious issue for seniors. They are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older; one in four older adults report falling every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). And 80 percent of these falls happen in the bathroom, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIH). That’s a big number, but don’t fret, because there are concrete steps you can take to make your bathroom – and entire home – safe for you and your loved ones. Below, we outline these steps, room by room.
BATHROOM
- Get a nightlight for those midnight trips to the bathroom
- Install grab rails in the appropriate places
- Get a shower seat. (Some seniors fall in the shower because they’re dizzy or tired.)
- Install a non-skid pad in the shower floor and/or bathtub
- If any water gets on the floor after your shower or bath, wipe it up immediately. Also, get a bath mat with a slip-resistant back.
- Replace the toilet seat with a higher seat and/or install handrails
BEDROOM
- Move a light closer to the bed or attach a light to the headboard
- Store glasses within reach of the bed
- Cords are a tripping hazard. Reroute cords so they do not cross walking paths and/or get an electrician to install additional outlets
- Remove clutter from walkways to reduce the chances of tripping over it
- If you go to the bathroom frequently throughout the night, consider placing a portable commode near the bed to eliminate these nighttime trips
KITCHEN
- Remove throw rugs or secure them to the floor with slip-resistant backing
- Rearrange cupboards and drawers so that items used most often are waist high. Use a sturdy step stool with a grab bar to reach items stored overhead. Never use a chair as a step stool
- Sweep often and wipe up liquid immediately to reduce the chances of slipping
LIVING AREA
- Remove dangerous floor coverings (carpets with frayed corners or rolled up edges) or secure them well with double-sided tapes, nails, etc. It’s important to have a flat, sturdy walkway.
- Remove throw rugs (or tape them down on both sides)
- Replace low chairs with higher chairs and couches if possible (they’re easier to sit down in)
- Get a cordless phone or medical alert device
- Tape cords and wires to the wall or have an electrician install additional outlets
- Remove clutter from walkways to avoid tripping
- Rearrange furniture to provide for obstacle-free walking
- Install handrails by steps or stairs
This information is for educational purposes. Please consult your physician for any medical issues. The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) is committed to bringing trusted and quality home health, private care and hospice to Indian River County patients. For more information about VNA services, call 772-567-5551 or visit www.vnatc.com.
