Falls and the complications from falls are a leading cause of death among the senior community. The following are 7 ways that PLUSHER living decreases falls and the ensuing complications.
Pants – It’s true, we do get shorter as we age because the water content between our vertebrae (spine bones) dries up as we age. Checking the hemline of your pants is one way to decrease falls. Pants should fall just below the top of the shoe. A good time to check the length of your pants is when your clocks are changed.
Lighting – Poor lighting in hallways and stairs can create shadows and give the illusion of obstacles that will lead to missteps causing falls.
Uneven terrain – Fall safety outside the home is just as important as inside the home. Uneven heights of concrete walkways, patios, curbs along with flagstone and steps can be the source of significant fall injuries.
Shoes – Heels, sling-back, and clog type shoes affect balance and is a source of slip and trip falls. Proper fitting shoes, securely tied, or Velcro will make you more surefooted.
Handrails – Make sure handrails on staircases are securely attached to the walls to aid in stability in climbing. Handrails can also be placed on walls in a straight line to aid in walking to those with balance issues or in recovery from a stroke or orthopedic injuries.
Eliminate clutter – Staircases can be a convenient location to place items that go between floors. Excess knick-knacks, books, and pictures on coffee and end tables can cause risk by not being a stable surface to lean on.
Rugs – Throw rugs, while may look pretty and add to a room’s décor, they also are at the root of many home falls. If you have any difficulty walking in any fashion, removal of these rugs will greatly improve home safety.