Whether it's a yappy but lovable pup or the curled up edge of a carpet, every household has its fall hazards. However, as you age, these fall risks need much more attention.
According to the CDC, one out of five falls causes a serious injury, and in older adults, those falls can become much more dangerous, often leading to a decline in health altogether.
Know the fall risks in your home and how to avoid them
There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a fall. First, be mindful of some of the most common fall risks in the home:
- Small children
- Pets (large and small)
- Electrical cords
- Uneven floors
- Wet tile floors
- Areas rugs and other trip hazards
- Narrow paths and walkways
- Improper footwear
- Steps and stairs
- Outside surfaces
- Unsafe/unsecured rails
- Visual distortions (low light, low contrast floors and steps)
- Clutter and obstacles (toys, etc.)
- Unsafe devices (walkers, canes)
- Improperly sized devices
- Frequently used objects on high or low shelves
- Slippery tub or shower surfaces
Help reduce your fall risk with the following tips:
- Ask your doctor about taking vitamin D; it's proven to improve bone and muscle health
- Get your eyes checked at least once a year and update eyewear when needed
- Do strength and balance exercises such as tai chi
- Add grab bars in the shower and next to the toilet
- Replace dim lightbulbs with brighter ones and make sure your home has lots of lighting
- Review all your medications — prescription and over-the-counter — with your doctor to see if they might make you dizzy or drowsy