Here are some tips to help seniors prevent falls and accidents at home:
Lighting: Make sure all rooms, passages, and staircases are well lit. Install improved lighting where needed, and use night lights that turn on automatically in the dark.
Clutter: Remove fall hazards like clutter, boxes, newspapers, electrical cords, and phone cords from walkways. Keep living spaces clear, and move coffee tables, magazine racks, and plant stands from high-traffic areas.
Stairs: Remove items like shoes, books, and mail from stairs. Install handrails on both sides of any stairs, and make sure they are fixed and sturdy. You can also try painting each step a different color or adding safety tape to help differentiate between them. If there are a lot of stairs, consider installing a stairlift.
Floors: Check that all carpets are firmly fixed to the floor, and put non-slip strips on tile and wooden floors. Avoid walking on slippery, newly washed floors.
Bathrooms: Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower. Place non-slip mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. You can also consider using a shower chair, raised toilet seat with hand rails, or a hand-held shower attachment.
Kitchen: Keep frequently used kitchen items, like pots and cooking utensils, within easy reach. If you need to reach something overhead, keep a sturdy stool nearby. Wipe up spills immediately.
Other: Make sure your sofa or chairs are at heights that allow you to easily get up or down. Ensure cords don't cross over areas you walk. Consider getting help to do things you're unable to do safely on your own.
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