Home Safe: Slips, Trips, and Falls
WHY SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS?
Slips, trips and falls are among the most common accidents. Each year, millions of Americans need medical treatment from falls, the cause of nearly one-third of all nonfatal injuries, according to the National Safety Council.
Falling is especially common and dangerous for people 65 and older, according to the CDC. Roughly one in four seniors fall each year, that’s about 3 million people, resulting in about 800,000 hospitalizations.
Here are six tips to get you started now.
#1 Safe flooring. Remove carpeting, rugs and mats that are especially high, and look for other areas of uneven flooring. Add non-slip treads to uncarpeted stairs.
#2 Usability and access. Store essential, frequently-used items in easy-to-reach places. Lower clothes rods in closets to avoid having to extend your reach or use a step stool.
#3 Remove clutter from the floor. Manage electric cords. Return items to designated places. Throw out, recycle, donate, or sell items you don’t need. Ensure clear walkways around furniture.
#4 Lighting. Ensure good lighting in stairs, hallways, and outdoors. Add lights with remotes, and light switches that glow in the dark. Place emergency flashlights and nightlights in convenient locations. Install exterior lights with motion sensors.
#5 Handholds. Add grab bars or hand rails where you struggle, such as the front steps, between uneven rooms, the bathtub, or stairways - attach handrails on both sides of the stairs
#6 Slip spots. Add a low pile mat over wet areas in the kitchen and bathroom, and bath mat in the shower. Place a slip-resistant mat under rugs. Remove small throw rugs, or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping
Resources
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