We spend a lot of time in our homes. And as we age, we tend to spend even longer there. For that reason, falls at home are very common. However, the risk of falls can be reduced by doing a simple safety check of our house.
Kitchen
Can you reach the things on your shelves? Or do you mind yourself on your tip toes, struggling to reach what you want? Bringing your frequently used items down to lower shelves reduced the chance of you loosing your balance and falling.
If you use a step stool to reach for higher shelves, make sure it is stable and steady when you are on it. Kitchen floors are hazards for spilled foods and liquids. Make sure to wipe up anything you could slip on.
Living Room
It is easy to trip over rugs on the floor. Make sure to stick all rugs down to the floor, or take them up altogether. Make sure all leads are safely tied away and not a tripping hazard. Do not leave clutter out on the floor, and make clear paths between rooms.
Bedroom
Make sure the path from your bed to the bathroom is clear. Going to the toilet at night is a high fall risk scenario, as we are not always alert and the room is dark. Use a night light to improve your visibility.
Make sure your bedside lamp and all other essentials are easily in reaching distance when reaching for them when laying down.
Bathrooms
Make sure to put down non slip mats in the shower, or bath tub. Place grab bars on the walls if you feels unsteady in the shower. If you have a hard time standing for the duration of the shower, consider a shower chair.
Hallways and Stairs
Make sure your hallways and stairways are clear and well lit. Ensure there is a light switch at the top and bottom of the stairs. Keep objects and shoes off the stairs to prevent tripping. Fix any broken indoor or outdoor steps or railings. Make sure all railings are sturdy, and that the carpet on the stairs is not loose.
Basement
Keep clutter to a minimum and avoid tight turns where you are at risk for falling. Keep the floors clear and spill free.