Taking a fall can strip a senior of independence and good health. Often the fear of falling can reduce a senior’s activity level to the point of isolation.
Here are some tips to avoiding a nasty spill:
Household Hazards:
- Keep clutter, including electrical and extension cords, away from stairs and high traffic areas.
- Clean up spills immediately. Transparent liquids such as water on linoleum are an easy way to take a spill of your own.
- Look around for hazards. A grandchild’s crayon or a magazine dropped on the floor can be dangerous.
- Keep an eye on pets, which can get under foot especially at feeding time.
- Be particularly careful when walking outside. Avoid grassy patches, which may be uneven.
- Invest in cordless phones. Some models have a base and remote unit. It is like getting two phones for the price of one. They are not expensive and are easily set up.
- Area rugs should be given away because, even taped down, it is possible to trip on the edges. This is especially true for someone with a dropped foot or one who tends to shuffle.
- Make sure pathways have not narrowed due to furniture obstruction.
Medical Mishaps:
- Have your eyes and ears checked. Hearing plays an important role in balance and space perception. Also, make sure your eyeglasses prescription is current. If your vision is a little blurry, you may trip over things not easily seen.
- Speak with your doctor about medications that may cause dizziness. Also, be mindful of standing up too quickly after sleeping or sitting for long periods, which can make you dizzy as well.
- And if you are on oxygen, beware of the hose as that is also a tripping hazard.
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