How to Prevent Falls at Home for Senior Loved Ones

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly, and they can significantly impact their quality of life. However, many falls are preventable with thoughtful changes at home. Below, we’ll explore actionable steps to minimize the risk of falls, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

Declutter Pathways and Living Spaces

One of the simplest ways to reduce fall risks is to keep the home free of unnecessary clutter. 

• Clear hallways, staircases, and walkways of items such as shoes, books, or cords. 

• Organize frequently used items so they can be accessed without stretching or bending excessively. 
• Avoid leaving loose rugs or mats around. If rugs are necessary, secure them with nonslip backing to prevent them from shifting. 

Creating clean, open pathways can significantly reduce the chances of a dangerous trip or slip. 

Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the many ways you can reduce your loved one’s risk of falls. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. 

Improve Lighting throughout the House

Visibility is key to avoiding falls. Poor lighting is a common hazard that makes it difficult for seniors to notice obstacles in their paths. 

• Install brighter bulbs in key areas, including living rooms, hallways, staircases, and bathrooms. 

• Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms to provide adequate lighting during nighttime. 
• Ensure switches are easily accessible, and consider adding motion-sensor lights for added convenience. 

Enhanced lighting ensures seniors can safely move around their homes during both day and night. 

Install Supportive Equipment

Adding supportive devices can make critical areas of the home much safer for seniors. 

• Equip bathrooms with grab bars near the shower, bathtub, and toilet to assist with balance. 

• Use nonslip mats in the bathroom and kitchen to prevent slips on wet surfaces. 

• Install handrails on both sides of staircases for extra stability. 

• If mobility is severely affected, consider ramps instead of stairs for easier access. 

Supportive equipment provides a sense of security and helps seniors maintain their independence. 

One of the best ways to reduce the risk of injuries from falls is to have a caregiver close by. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Phoenix respite care experts at Assisting Hands Home Care are here to help. All of our home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.

Choose Proper Footwear

What seniors wear on their feet can play a huge role in preventing falls. 

• Encourage the use of shoes with nonslip soles rather than slippers or socks alone, which can be slippery on smooth floors. 

• Avoid high heels or shoes with hard soles, as they can increase instability. 

• Opt for shoes that provide proper support and fit snugly without being too tight.

Proper footwear is one of the easiest ways to improve traction and reduce the risk of falling indoors and outdoors. 

Create a Plan for Emergencies

Even with all precautions in place, falls can still occur. Having a plan ensures quick assistance in case of an emergency. 

• Keep emergency contact information by the phone or programmed into speed-dial. 

• Consider providing a medical alert device that allows your loved one to call for help at the press of a button. 
• Conduct regular checks to ensure caregivers or family members can visit frequently to monitor safety and overall wellbeing. 

Having an emergency response strategy ensures quick help should a fall occur, reducing potential complications. An increased risk of falls is one of the many challenges seniors may have to face. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior care. Phoenix families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Assisting Hands Home Care Phoenix. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Specialists today.