As a vulnerable demographic, families must ensure senior members are safe, particularly regarding falls and accidents. It may be wise to create a printable safety checklist. But what should this checklist entail?
This article will serve as a guide, including tips on everything you should have on your checklist to ensure fall prevention in your loved one’s home.
A Checklist for Fall Prevention
Here are some recommended items you should have on your checklist:
Eliminate Clutter
Many seniors have mobility issues that make cleaning difficult. Clutter can pile up on stairs, flooring, and hallways, increasing the risk of slips and falls. A simple inspection of these areas can identify potential hazards and ensure paths are clear.
Safeguards in the Bathroom
Considering the wet surfaces, the bathroom is a snake pit for accidents. In fact, a 2014 study shows that falls in the bathroom are twice as likely to result in a serious injury. However, relatives can keep these spaces safe with non-slip mats and anti-slip flooring.
You may also install:
- Grab bars near the shower, tub, and toilet for added stability
- A shower or bench seat so seniors can sit while bathing
- A raised toilet seat provides support as loved ones to get up and down
Improved Lighting
Poor lighting can also present danger. Many older adults are already visually challenged. Dim lighting means they may be unable to see obstructions and other hazards that present risks.
Relatives should go through the home to make an assessment of poorly lit areas and change the lighting if necessary.
Use Monitoring Systems
Families should do everything possible to avoid trips and falls, but they can happen anyway. That’s why monitoring is so important.
Monitoring can take the form of security cameras or wearable devices. They alert family members when a fall happens so they can call emergency services or nearby friends and relatives. This approach ensures an elderly relative is treated for their injuries and is not left unattended.
Secure Flooring
Unsecure flooring can also increase the risk of falls in aging adults. Conduct an inspection of the home environment, looking for loose rugs and floorboards, and secure them into place. Call a handyperson for this securement task if necessary.
Invest in Homecare
Taking precautions to avoid accidents is wise, but you can truly minimize the risk by hiring a homecare aide. The caregiver can conduct an evaluation of your home, identifying possible hazards. They can develop a plan to keep your loved one safe, monitor them, and prevent potential accidents.
Choosing the right homecare agency for your loved one is a big decision. Aurora Home Care is a provider you can count on. We offer skilled, compassionate staff members who can serve as protectors in a home environment. Our team provides a wide range of services, ensuring a customized approach to your loved one’s needs.
Contact us to learn how we can protect your relatives and improve their quality of life.
FAQs
What are the 5 Ps of fall prevention?
The 5 Ps of fall prevention are:
- Pain management- managing discomfort
- Personal needs- such as toileting and hydration
- Position- ensuring the body is in proper alignment
- Placement- verifying accessibility by placing essential items within reach
- Preventing hazards- developing an awareness of possible dangers and making the necessary improvements to ensure safety
What is the most significant factor for falls in older adults?
Older adults may fall because of lower body weakness, difficulty with walking and balance, the use of medications which can make them dizzy or drowsy, vision problems, foot pain, and home hazards.
What is the number one exercise to increase balance in seniors?
Seniors can achieve better balance by performing exercises like heel-toe raises, heel-toe walking, sideways walking, sit-to-stand movements, side leg raises, back leg raises, lunges, and the dead bug.
