A simple thing like a crumpled rug can change your life dramatically and severely impact your health in the long run. If you fall and break a bone you might even need surgery.
But, you sure will need more time to heal now that you’re older. And now that you’re older, you are more prone to falling because you are not as strong as before.
That’s why it’s good to be extra careful and simple preventive measures can really mean a lot and make your life that much easier. So, today we bring you our fall prevention tips to keep you on your feet!
1. Remove Tripping Hazards From Your Home
If a simple thing like a loose carpet or a slippery rug can make your life that much worse, why not remove it? Get someone to help you carefully examine your home and see what might get into your way and remove it.
Sometimes broken fixtures can cause falls, too, so fix anything that’s out of place and mitigate slippery floors. You can take this chance to declutter, too, and get rid of anything that doesn’t serve you anymore, especially things that block your way.
2. Make Your Home More Senior-Friendly
While you’re examining your home to see what you can get rid of and what to repair, you can also find room for home improvements. Depending on your overall condition and strength, you may find grab bars and handrails extremely helpful!
For example, these devices could help you in and out of the bathtub or go up and down the stairs. These small home improvements aren’t that expensive and they can be your little helpers and live-savers as you grow even older.
3. Light It Right and Check Your Vision
One of the key reasons why elderly people fall is because they can’t see clearly. And, it is either due to poor lighting or eye vision complications. So, when you’re doing home improvements, don’t forget about the lighting!
Light your home just right and put lamps and night lights in strategic places. Keep flashlights where you can easily reach them in case of a power outage. And when it comes to your vision, check with your doctor to see if it’s time for (new) glasses.
4. Adjust Your Clothing and Shoe Collection
After you’ve adjusted your home, it’s time to make your clothing and shoe collections fall-proof! While baggy clothes tend to be the most comfortable, they can also lead to falling. So, make sure you wear comfortable, but fitting clothes.
As per shoes, avoid heels no matter how small. Stick to shoes that are comfortable and non-slippery. Also, don’t walk around in socks only – socks can be slippery. Either get the non-slippery socks with those silicon dots on the bottom or put on slippers.
5. Keep It Moving & Move Carefully
Being in shape is a good way to avoid losing balance when walking which leads to falls. That’s why it’s good to walk and do light exercises if you can. It will make your muscles stronger and make it easier for you to keep balance.
Also, when walking and going somewhere, especially at night or if you suddenly get up – keep it nice and slow. Walk and move carefully. Slower is better than going faster only to trip and fall.
We hope our little tips will help you stay safe and on your feet! Take care of yourself, you are very much loved.
