If you live in a home with an elderly loved one, you’ve likely already encountered some scary moments. We’re not talking about the ones associated with Halloween, which comes this Tuesday. We’re talking about the slips and falls that tend to occur when older adults experience diminished strength and balance issues. It’s important to safeguard various areas of the home. But which are the ones where seniors are most likely to fall?
The bathroom.
The bathroom is a notorious hotspot for falls among older adults. Slippery surfaces, like those found in showers or bathtubs, can make getting in and out of them a challenge. To mitigate these risks, consider installing non-slip mats and grab bars in strategic locations. A shower seat also provides support during bathing. As well, proper lighting is crucial in preventing accidents in the bathroom.
“Bathrooms are one of the most common areas for an elderly person to fall in, largely due to the fact that the floors are often slippery, especially when wet,” informs Terry Smith of UK-based quality care equipment provider, Felgains, “And unfortunately, the consequences of falling in a bathroom are often serious, due to the fact that the floors, walls and even the furniture in bathrooms typically have hard and cold surfaces.”
The kitchen.
Kitchens are often hubs of activity. They also harbour potential dangers for older adults. Slippery floors, especially if there are spills, can be problematic. Lowering shelves and using pull-out drawers can help minimize the need for climbing and reaching for items. Adequate lighting, non-slip mats and well-organized kitchen utensils can also make a big difference in reducing the risk of falls in the kitchen.
“While cooking and serving food, the senior’s hands are obviously full,” points out Tamas O. for Best Reviews, “Because of this their balance is affected, and they are unable to catch themselves if they lose their balance nor can they soften the impact. Preparing the meal also involves a number of safety hazards. Fire is one thing, but if the elderly person is becoming forgetful then they could end up leaving the stove on, which could cause CO poisoning.”
The stairs.
Staircases are among the most common places where falls occur. As we age, issues with balance and mobility can make navigating steps a hazardous endeavour. Staircases without handrails, poor lighting or loose rugs can exacerbate these risks. Installing handrails on both sides of the staircase, ensuring adequate lighting and keeping the steps clutter-free can significantly reduce the risk of falls in these areas.
“Stair accidents result in many injuries and financial losses each year in Canada and the US,” report Ramez Mikhael and Nabi Goudarzi of forensic expert group, Origin And Cause, “According to a Health Canada report, about 13% of fall-related injuries to seniors over 65 years old occur when ascending or descending stairs. Falling on stairs can also be fatal.”
Falls on the stairs can easily be avoided with the installation of a stair lift!
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we specialize in providing high-quality stair lifts. Our team of experts will work with you to understand your specific needs and recommend the best stair lift for your situation. We also ensure that your stair lift is installed safely and properly.
To learn all about the stair lifts offered by LifeCare Mobility Solutions, please don’t hesitate to call us at 416-267-9800 or email us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page! Be sure to ask us about our home bathroom modifications as well!
