5 Ways to Prevent a Slip and Fall Accident

Slip and fall accidents are a serious dilemma for most seniors and over 70 percent of them happen within mere yards of their home. The general result of a slip and fall accident is a fracture and at worst, brain trauma or injury.

As an in-home nursing and companion service, we understand that the risks of these types of accidents are all too real for elders. The good news is that even though this may seem scary and disconcerting, slip and fall accidents can be prevented.

Here are five easy tips on slip and fall prevention.

Tip #1: Constant Vigilance

Being aware of not only your environment but how you are feeling is very important in avoiding an unnecessary slip and fall accident. Pay attention to objects around you that may cause an issue, such as wet floors, perhaps the hose being left uncoiled, or even a paving stone that’s in your path.

In addition, the way you feel is also something to remain alert to. If you’re feeling light headed, weak at the knees, or otherwise, take a seat and rest. Pushing yourself to complete that gardening project or finish the dishes isn’t worth your getting injured.

Tip #2: Take Your Time

Dashing about can mean that you’re failing to take your surroundings into account (as per tip number one), which could lead to an accident. Furthermore, folks of all ages make careless and harmful mistakes when moving too quickly such as twisting an ankle or even popping a knee joint out. There’s no need for excessive rushing. Where’s the fire? Take your time and make it to your destination safely.

Tip #3: Balancing Act

Sometimes the best offense is a good defense! Improving your overall balance by engaging in activities that test and strengthen your balance can be quite useful. Taking some classes in yoga or tai chi help focus your muscles and improves stability. Proactivity at its finest!

Tip #4: Vision

Get those eyes checked! The way we see our world plays a major role in how we navigate it. If our vision is off, our steps might be too! Walking around with blurry or distorted vision is now way to keep things in focus.

Tip #5: Make the Little Things Safer

Hallways, showers, entries into your home can be made less hazardous. Is that old carpet runner still necessary? Adding safety bars to showers and removing the tub so that you can step in easier are great ways to improve your home space. Make walking from one room to the next and performing your daily activities as seamless as possible. Ask a loved one or slip and fall prevention service provider to come over and help you rearrange you space to make it safe.

In the event that you do slip and fall, please remember to remain still and take a few deep breaths. Do not attempt to move yourself or stand right away. Always remember to assess yourself, if you’re hurt, try to alert the proper authorities or a loved one. The latter is easier when in possession of a medical alert device or keeping a mobile phone in your pocket consistently.

In addition, the service of an in-home caregiver can be beneficial in not only helping to prevent slip and fall accidents, but who is also available to call to your side in the event that you do injure yourself. Contact us for a free in-home consultation to learn more about our in-home nursing and companion services. Please stay safe!

Sources:

4 Principles to Prevent Senior Slips and Falls. (2014). Retrieved July 07, 2016, from http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/6-30-14-fall-prevention-principles/

Important Facts about Falls. (2016). Retrieved July 07, 2016, from http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention will Keep Older Adults Safe and Independent. (n.d.). Retrieved July 07, 2016, from http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/safety-at-home-falls.aspx