As our parents age, more attention is needed to help him or her remain independent. Everyone’s situation is so different – whether your loved one lives alone or with a spouse, or has chronic illnesses or frailty related to natural aging processes. So, there is not a “one-size-fits-all” plan for providing a safe and healthy environment.
However, here are some things to consider:
Fall and Accident Prevention:
When we age, we sometimes lose our stability and poise – which makes falling more likely. In fact, 35-40% of seniors over 65 fall at least once a year and seek medical attention.
Falls are more damaging to older people too. For those over 65 years old who suffer a hip fracture – 60% of these seniors are discharged to a nursing home. Our likelihood of having bone loss that can increase hip fracture is higher as we age – particularly for women.
Falls can lead to permanent disability and most falls are preventable.
There are two things to consider when preventing accidents: 1) Things the family member can do - and 2) the physical nature of the home.
In terms of your family member, here are some things you can do to help counteract some of the causes of accidents:
Things Your Family Member can Do to Stay Safe:
1. Eye exams: Ensure that his or her eyes are checked regularly and make sure that eye prescriptions are up to date, in good repair and worn.
2. Encourage not drinking alcohol – especially when he or she is alone or if there are any interactions between alcohol and medications being taken.
3. Keep them exercising – regular exercise can help with coordination and strength to keep falling to a minimum
4. Use mobility assistance if needed (canes, walkers, etc.). If your loved one naturally leans on the furniture to help him or her get up or remain stable while walking – it is time to think about canes and walkers.
5. Think about investing in good shoes with supportive, robber-soled low heels and good traction.
6. Help your loved one remember to not rush – this is often when accidents happen – when rushing to get the phone, cross the street, etc.
7. Talk to your doctor about all prescriptions and if any cause particular increased risk of falling.
8. Tackle normal dizziness: Certain types of dizziness occurs when a person stands up from a seated position. If a person clenches hands and wiggles toes prior to getting up – it can reduce this type of dizziness.
General Home Tips to Prevent Falls and Accidents:
See our downloadable checksheet for evaluating a home for safety and fall prevention. This tool is a great way to begin the conversation about small changes that may need to be made to decrease the likelihood of preventable accidents in the home.
1. Clear excess debris, clutter, cords, etc. – simplify the home and make it neat and orderly
2. Use nightlights and ensure good lighting inside and out.
3. Repair any broken or worn fixtures or flooring
4. Make sure rugs are stable and not slipping or sticking up. Taping rugs down or using a non-stick pad under the rug can help.
5. Be careful on tile, marble, or polished flooring and place non-stick mats down to enable safe passage.
6. Make sure handrails are on stairs and if possible, near the toilet and tub.
7. Turn the water heater down if the hot water is over 120 degrees
8. Use bright tape to mark any uneven floor surface or steps if the person has trouble seeing the difference in level.
9. Use some power failure lighting to enable some light in the event of a power outage. Working flashlights are also helpful.
10. Make sure all fire alarms are in working order and that you have a fire extinguisher near the stove/oven.
Health Resources
Download the Home Safety Checklist