Home safety tips for balance falls in elderly | ReLiva Physiotherapy

1. HOW TO PREVENT FALLS AND INJURIES HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST FLOORS 01 Keep the pathway clear so you don’t trip over them. Use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so rugs won’t slip. STAIRS AND STEPS According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) global report on falls prevention: 02 • Falls among older adults are the leading cause of injury deaths and non fatal ones cause hospital admissions and physical decline. Make sure the carpet is firmly attached on stairs and fix loose or uneven steps. Install handrails on both the sides of stairs. • People aged 65 years and above fall about 28%-35% in each year and this proportion increas- es as age and frailty level increases KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY • Fear of falling by itself limits their activities and social 03 • The prevalence of falls in India, above the age of engagements; thus leading to physical decline, Keep daily items within easy reach. Never use chair as a step stool, even if you use it ensure that it has a bar to hold on to. 60 years, reported to range between 14%-53%. depression and feelings of helplessness. BEDROOMS 04 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Learn exercises for balance and coordination and do them regularly. This is one of the most important ways to reduce your chance of falling. Place a lamp close to the bed where it’s easy to reach. Install a night light so that you can don’t stumble upon any objects. MEDICATION Have your doctor review all the medicines you take. Few medications and combination of otherwise safe medicines can make you sleepy or dizzy and cause a fall. BATHROOMS 05 Put a non-slip rubber mat on the floor of bathroom. Install sturdy grab bars for the tub or shower, next to the toilet. VISION ISSUE Have a yearly eye check-up and keep prescription eyeglasses up-to-date. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling. OTHER SAFETY TIPS 06 Avoid walking barefoot or wearing slippers. Always wear shoes indoor and outdoor. Consider wearing an alarm device or whistle that will summon help in case you fall. REMOVE TRIPPING HAZARDS Keep pathway clear of clutter and try using non slip bathmats for extra security. Physiotherapists are trained experts to help the elderly for treatment as well as preventive care for Geriatric issues like Balance & Falls, Arthritis and Joint pain, Spondylosis, Knee Replacement Rehab, Back Pain, Parkinson's, Frozen Shoulder.