Introduction
The CDC (Centers for Disease Prevention and Control) points to recent posts that “Every year millions of older people are those over 65”. These falls can often be severe, and there are strong indications that for older people or those who are recovering or those with a disability, each successive increase increases the likelihood of an additional fall. In fact, also according to the CDC, this year there were 9.6 million non-lethal injuries in the senior population due to a fall. Even this year, at 33, it was deadly. (Go to cdc.gov for sources). These facts are clearly sobering, but even more disturbing, since many of these falls occur at home and can be easily prevented.
Factors contributing to a home fall
Seniors and others who have lost a certain level of independence face many problems in the family, some internal and external, some of which are related to home security, and some that are surprisingly related to caregivers. Here are some common factors that we all need to keep in mind:
- Loss of full engine control
- Drugs that cause drowsiness and dizziness
- Home safety issues that increase the risk of mobility
- Unsuitable mobility support devices
- Lack of forging, proper physical activity
Trustees and their role in home security
Family caregivers or hired caregivers for the elderly and other people should be acutely aware of the risks associated with falling risks in the home and help those who need help to avoid these dangers. Trustees should be proactive in ensuring the safety of those they care for through awareness, communication, and correction of hidden and / or obvious internal hazards. This can be achieved through vigilance and participation. For example, caregivers should try to stand on the feet of those they care for and predetermine what problems they face in and around the house. It is quite difficult for those who need care to simply accept their position regarding aging, disability or otherwise, and therefore care must be sensitive to the feelings of the elderly and other people, while maintaining vigilance in ensuring home safety. Trustees really need to behave like unsung heroes or angels working in the background, and not forcing older people or other people to take care of themselves worse if they lose some kind of independence.
Risk mitigation and security measures
CDC, as well as other sources, provide important but intuitive tips on how to minimize the risk of falling and injury. In fact, the National Security Council provides excellent guidance in its recent article, “Slipping, preventing travel, and preventing fall, will help keep older adults safe and independent” (click here for the source). Most of us can think a little about this topic and easily come up with a checklist of items to evaluate in our homes to make them safer for older people, convalescent or disabled. Below is a good start and can give you additional thought and guidance. Please note that, of course, this is offered as an offer, not a medical consultation.
Kitchen safety
- Kitchen equipment, utensils, dishes, glasses and food should be properly stored and easily accessible.
- No catchy carpet or the like is placed on the kitchen floor.
- Floors should always be free from any spills (oil, food, etc.),
- Use counter-toasters if possible, making them easily accessible.
- Where higher cabinets should be available, a stepped stool with a handrail should be easily accessible.
- Non-slip floor cleaners for floor cleaning only
- Wall-to-wall carpeting should be completely and properly installed - without loose edges, tears, buckles or holes
- While it is not always possible, solid colors are better in that they provide greater consistency for those who are challenged by mobility — they also show cleaner edges.
- Avoid deep piles and shag carpets
- Make sure that the bathroom mats are slip resistant (not old ones where wear resistance is worn out) - make sure they are installed near the shower / bath area
- Make sure there are mirrors at different levels to ensure that the customer is not struggling or using a mirror.
- If possible, install grabs near the toilet, bathroom and / or shower.
- The floor of the bath / shower should be non-slip, if this is not the case, be sure to install non-slip safety strips.
- Where possible, use a soap dispenser installed in a very accessible shower / bath area
- If necessary, the bathroom is a shower
- The toilet seat must have a raised type or toilet seat with armrests that must be installed in the toilet to ensure a safe balance when sitting or standing up from the toilet
- Basic safety features must be within reach of the bed, for example, on a bedside table. Consider a safe lamp, flashlight, telephone, cane, etc.
- If necessary, a raised-height mattress to help get up / out of bed
- The floor, especially around the bed, should be free from clutter, paper and any other objects.
- Night lights are located in the bedroom and along any routes to the bathroom.
- This category usually applies only in some cases.
- Ensure that all lanes are free of debris, branches, leaves, rocks, and similar.
- Ensure that all stones and masonry are solid,
- Ensure all tracks and access roads are as even as possible.
- Make sure all tracks are clean and not covered with moss, algae, oil, and / or other slippery substances.
- In areas that can be classified as paths, make sure that small pieces of furniture are pushed back. Examples include coffee tables, folding tables, ottomans, outdoor plants, etc.
- Light switches are in working condition and not closed
- No loose rugs or throwing rugs that can slip
- Rooms and space for movement are free from obstacles for furniture.
- Where applicable sound activated lamps
- Where applicable, use flickering dark marks for various items that require manipulation, such as cabinet handles, light switches, etc.
- All electrical cords for power, data, telephone, etc. are properly routed and secured, and not anywhere near paths or living quarters.
- All furniture is in proper condition, durable and reliable
- Several cordless telephones are available, each of which is shined in dark marks and ensures that they can be located audibly (i.e. have a handset function)
- No free tiles or floorboards
- Night lights suitable throughout the house
- Infrared sensor illuminates in certain areas where bright light is required at night.
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Install smoke detectors
- If necessary, based on the level of independence, organize a medical alert / subscription
- Install detectors that also have emergency lighting and / or install motion detection lighting when necessary.
