Age In Place Safely: Tips for Preventing Falls - Part 3

About one third of the elder population over the age of 65 falls each year, and the risk of falls increases proportionately with age.

At 80 years, over half of seniors fall annually.

As alarming as they are, these documented statistics fall short of the actual number since many incidents are unreported by seniors and unrecognized by family members or caregivers. Learn more about home safety all around your house:

Bedroom

• Put in a bedside light with a switch that is easy to turn on and off (or a touch lamp).
• Have a nightlight. We especially like LED night lights.
• Locate a telephone within reach of bed.
• Adjust the height of the bed to make it easy to get in and out of.
• Have a firm chair, with arms, to sit and dress.

Bathrooms

• Install grab bars on walls around the tub and beside the toilet, strong enough to hold your weight.
• Add nonskid mats or strips to bathtubs.
• Mount liquid soap dispenser on the bathtub wall.
• Install a portable, hand-held shower head.
• Add a padded bath or shower seat.

More fall injuries are caused by falls on the same level (vs. stairs) and from a standing height, i.e. tripping while walking. However, it is important to remember the stairs when considering home safety. And you can't forget those hallways, walkways or pathways in and around your home.

Stairways, Hallways and Pathways

• Keep free of clutter.
• Make sure carpet is secured and get rid of throw rugs.
• Install tightly fastened handrails running the entire length and along both sides of stairs.
• Handrails should be 34 inches high and have a diameter of about 1.5 inches.
• Apply brightly colored tape to the face of the steps to make them more visible.
• Optimal stair dimensions are 7.2 inch riser heights with either an 11 or 12 inch tread width.
• Have adequate lighting in stairways, hallways, and pathways, with light switches placed at each end.

Remember: Those who fall are two to three times more likely to fall again. About half (53%) of the older adults who are discharged for fall-related hip fractures will experience another fall with in six months. Simple changes like these can make a big impact on preventing a fall in the first place. 

Age In Place Safely: Part 1

Age In Place Safely: Part 2