TIPS FOR ENHANCING SAFETY AND PREVENTING FALLS IN YOUR HOME

1. Easily Accessible Lamp or Light Switch: Ensure that you have a lamp or light switch within reach from your bed. This way, you can easily illuminate the room without having to get out of bed, reducing the risk of tripping or stumbling in the dark.
2. Night Lights: Install night lights in the bedroom, bathroom, and hallway to provide low-level lighting during the night. This helps prevent falls by improving visibility in areas you may navigate when it’s dark.
3. Keep a Flashlight Handy: Have a flashlight readily available, such as by your bedside or in a designated spot, in case of a power outage or when additional lighting is needed in specific situations.
4. Adequate Lighting: Make sure there are light switches at both ends of stairs and hallways to ensure proper visibility during movement. Installing handrails on both sides of stairs provides additional support and stability while going up or down.
5. Turn on Lights at Night: When entering the house at night, always turn on the lights to ensure a well-lit environment, reducing the risk of accidents due to poor visibility.
6. Grab Bars: Install grab bars in the shower, tub, and toilet areas to assist with balance and provide support when getting in and out of these spaces.
7. Bath Mats and Non-Slip Surfaces: Use bath mats with suction cups to prevent slipping in the bathroom. Consider adding non-slip adhesive strips or a mat in the shower or tub for additional traction.
8. Shower Seating: If necessary, consider using a bench or stool in the shower to provide a stable and comfortable place to sit while bathing.
9. Elevated Toilet Seat: An elevated toilet seat can make it easier to sit down and stand up, reducing strain and the risk of falls in the bathroom.
10. Non-Slip Footwear: Wear non-slip, low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly to improve stability and prevent slipping. Avoid walking around in socks or stockings, as they can increase the chances of losing traction.
11. Clear Pathways: Remove all unnecessary clutter from your house to create clear pathways, allowing for safe and unobstructed movement.
12. Cord Management: Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways to prevent tripping hazards. Use cord clips or tape to secure cords along walls or floors.
13. Secure Rugs and Flooring: Tack rugs or use non-slip backing to prevent them from slipping. Ensure that carpets are firmly attached to stairs. Glue any loose vinyl flooring to ensure it lies flat and doesn’t pose a tripping risk.
14. Assistive Devices: Use helpful devices such as canes or walkers if needed to provide extra support and improve balance.
15. Stable Step Stool: If using a step stool, choose one with high and sturdy handrails for stability. Repair or discard wobbly step stools and avoid standing on chairs to reach objects. Store frequently used items where they are easily accessible and within reach.
16. Appropriate Bed Height: Make sure your bed is at a height that allows for easy and safe entry and exit. Adjustments can be made using bed risers or by choosing a bed with adjustable height settings.
17. Outdoor Step Safety: Paint the edges of outdoor steps and those that are narrower or higher than others to improve visibility. For better traction, consider mixing sand with paint and applying it to outdoor stairs. Keep outdoor walkways clear of obstacles and ensure they are well-lit.
18. Maintaining Walkways: Keep walkways in good repair, addressing any cracks or loose concrete promptly. During winter, remove snow and ice from entrances and sidewalks to prevent slipping.
19. Medication Review: Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some medications, including over-the-counter drugs, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and unsteadiness as side effects. It’s important to read the caution advice on medication labels and follow the recommended dosage to minimize these risks.
20. Moderate Alcohol Intake: Be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Consuming more than two drinks per day can affect your balance and increase the likelihood of unsteadiness and falls.
21. Regular Hearing and Vision Check-ups: Schedule regular hearing and eyesight tests. Inner ear problems can impact balance, while vision impairments make it difficult to identify potential hazards in your surroundings.
22. Exercise for Strength and Flexibility: Engage in regular exercise routines that focus on improving muscle flexibility and strength. Exercises such as walking, swimming, or tai chi can help enhance balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness.
23. Sit Down if Feeling Dizzy: If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, take a seat or remain seated until your head clears. Standing up slowly and allowing yourself to regain balance before moving or walking can help prevent falls.
24. Awareness of Falling Statistics: Stay informed about the risks associated with falls, especially for individuals over the age of 65. Approximately one-third of people in this age group experience falls each year, and this percentage increases to 50% by age 80. Knowing these statistics can help motivate you to take necessary precautions.

By implementing these safety measures and being proactive in maintaining a safe environment, you can significantly reduce the risk of falls and promote your overall well-being and independence at home. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals or specialists if you have specific concerns or need personalized advice regarding fall prevention.

To learn more about estate planning and elder law, visit Estate and Elder Planning by David Wingate at www.davidwingate.com. For an Initial Consultation, call (301) 663-9230. We can assist you with powers of attorneys, living wills, wills, trusts, Medicaid planning, and asset protection. With office locations in Frederick, Washington, and Montgomery Counties, Maryland, we are here to provide you with peace of mind.

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