Preventing falls in the home

If you are over 65, live with a relative who is that age, or frequently have guests who are that age spending time in your home, you should take some precautions to prevent falls.

Every room in your house can be “fall proof” if you take the time assess possible dangers and do some rearranging.

Bathroom:

• Use non-skid adhesive strips on the floor of the bathtub or shower. These strips can serve as decoration and as a safety precaution.
  

• Put grab bars on the walls near the toilet and bath/shower area. Having these bars to hold onto can make a world of difference.
  

Kitchen:

• Don’t try to get to high cabinets on your own or by standing on a chair, and don’t allow your guests to do attempt to do this either. Use a sturdy step stool, preferably one with a handrail.
• If you must wax your floors, use the non-skid variety.
• Don’t allow spills to go unnoticed because they create a safety hazard.

Throughout the house:

• Get rid of wobbly furniture.
• Get rid of furniture that sits really low. If you cannot part with these pieces, warn guests about this furniture or offer to help them get up.
• Be prompt about repairing loose floorboards.
• Don’t allow electric cords to block walkways.
• Use slip-resistant backing to keep area rugs in place.