September is Fall Prevention & Home Safety Month

By James Morris

Maintaining a safe and secure living environment becomes increasingly important as we age. In recognition of September being Home Safety and Trip & Fall Prevention Month, the Redmond Senior Center’s Wellness Series focuses on practical steps that seniors and their families can take to reduce the risk of accidents at home. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults. Still, many of these incidents can be prevented with thoughtful adjustments to your living space and daily routines.

Understanding the Risks

The first step in preventing falls is understanding why they happen. Our balance, strength, and vision can decline as we age, making us more susceptible to tripping or losing our footing. Additionally, medications, health conditions like arthritis, or even dehydration can increase the likelihood of a fall. The good news is that by recognizing these risk factors, we can implement strategies to mitigate them.

Home Safety Tips

Creating a safer home environment is key to preventing falls. Here are some practical tips to help reduce hazards in your living space:

• Clear Pathways: Ensure all walkways in your home are clutter-free, such as shoes, books, or electrical cords. This is especially important in high-traffic areas like the hallway, kitchen, and bathroom.
• Improve Lighting: Good lighting is crucial in preventing falls. Make sure your home is well-lit, particularly in stairways and hallways. Consider using nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms to help navigate during the night.
• Secure Rugs and Carpets: Loose rugs and carpets are a common tripping hazard. Use double-sided tape or non-slip mats to keep them in place, or remove them altogether if they pose a risk.
• Install Handrails and Grab Bars: Stairs, bathrooms, and other areas where you may need extra support should have sturdy handrails and grab bars. These can be lifesavers in preventing a fall.
• Use Non-Slip Mats in Wet Areas: Bathrooms and kitchens can become slippery when wet. Place non-slip mats in front of the sink, in the shower, and anywhere else where water might create a hazard.
• Organize Your Storage: Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid needing a step stool or ladder. If you must use a step stool, ensure it has a stable base and a handle for support.

Personal Safety Tips

In addition to making changes to your home, consider these personal safety strategies:

• Stay Active: Regular exercise can improve strength, balance, and coordination. Activities like walking, swimming, or tai chi are excellent options for seniors looking to maintain mobility and reduce fall risk.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Shoes with non-slip soles that provide good support are essential. Avoid walking around in socks or slippers that lack grip.
• Get Regular Health Checkups: Regular visits to your doctor can help identify and manage conditions that might increase your risk of falling, such as vision problems or the side effects of medications.
• Keep Hydrated and Eat Well: Dehydration and poor nutrition can affect your balance and strength. Ensure you drink enough water and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

What to Do If You Fall

Despite all precautions, falls can still happen. It’s important to know what to do if you find yourself in this situation:

• Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: If you’re not hurt, get up slowly by rolling onto your side, pushing up with your hands, and then using stable furniture to support yourself as you rise.
• Seek Help: If you’re injured or can’t get up, try to call for help. Keep a phone within reach, or consider using a medical alert device to quickly summon assistance.
• See Your Doctor: After a fall, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured, it’s wise to see your doctor to check for any hidden injuries or to discuss what might have caused the fall.

Conclusion

Home safety and fall prevention are vital components of living independently and healthily as we age. You can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls by taking proactive steps to identify and mitigate risks in your home and personal routines. During September and throughout the year, we encourage you to review these tips and make the necessary changes to ensure a safer living environment. The Redmond Senior Center is here to support you with resources and programs to help you stay safe, active, and independent.

Stay safe, and take care!