Simple, cheap repairs can help keep elders upright – and reduce caregiving costs. 
Cecily O’Connor
RedwoodAge.com
Falls due to slick floors or poorly lit stairwells are preventable, not inevitable, among the elderly.
And it’s really up to their children and other caregivers to pay attention and make some home modifications – most of which are pretty inexpensive – to protect against falls.
The trouble is, only about a quarter of caregivers have taken such measures – even though older adults experience an average of more than 4,700 fall-related deaths and 1.5 million nonfatal fall injuries each year, according to the Home Safety Council.
"It’s a grave concern that the majority of caregivers fail to recognize falls as a serious and potentially life-changing home danger," said Meri-K Appy, president of the council.
The issue has been nabbing lawmakers’ attention in recent months, too. The "Safety of Seniors Act" passed the House in the spring calling for public education and research surrounding elderly falls amid worries that problems could escalate with the aging boomer population.
Hip fractures are a common outcome for a fall. Tumbles also can lead to further health complications and increase long-term care needs.
To raise more awareness, the council has introduced a web site to help caregivers identify common injury dangers in the home.
"We urge caregivers of adults to first take action to prevent falls in their own homes," Appy said. "That way, the adults in their care won’t
view safety improvements as a consequence of aging."
HSC recommended the following falls prevention steps to help caregivers prevent falls in areas of the home where injuries are common.
Stairways and Walkways:
- All stairs and steps should be protected with a secure banister or hand-rail on each side that extends the full length of the stairs.
- Make sure porches, hallways and stairwells are well lit with a bright light at the top and bottom of stairs.
- Use nightlights to light hallways, stairwells and bathrooms during the night.
- Keep stairs, steps, landings and all floors clear. Reduce clutter and tuck telephone and electrical cords out of walkways.
Bathroom:
- Use a non-slip mat or install adhesive safety strips or decals in bathtubs and showers.
- Install grab bars in bath and shower stalls. Do not use towel racks or wall-mounted soap dishes as grab bars; they can easily come loose.
- Keep the floor clean and dry.
- If you use throw rugs, choose ones with non-skid backs to reduce chances of slipping.
Sorry, comments are closed for this post.