How to reduce falls hazards in your home
There are many reasons you or a loved one may be experiencing falls. Another blog by The Rehab Team delves into potential reasons for falls and what you can do about it HERE.
Today we are looking at some way to create a safer environment where it matters most… your home! One significant risk to safety within the home is the presence of fall hazards. In this blog post, we'll explore common fall hazards that may exist in your home and discuss practical steps to identify and address them.
1. Cluttered Walkways:
-Issue: Accumulation of items in hallways and walkways.
-Solution: Regularly declutter and organise living spaces. Ensure clear paths to prevent tripping.
2. Slippery Surfaces:
-Issue: Smooth or wet floors in bathrooms, kitchens, and entrance ways.
-Solution: Use non-slip mats, rugs, and apply non-slip coatings to floors. Wipe up spills promptly.
3. Poor Lighting:
-Issue: Inadequate lighting in hallways, staircases, and entry points.
- Solution: Install brighter bulbs, add additional lighting fixtures, and consider motion-sensor lights for key access areas.
4. Unsecured Carpets and Rugs:
- Issue: Loose or wrinkled carpets and rugs.
-Solution: Use double-sided tape or non-slip pads to secure carpets. Ensure edges are flat to prevent tripping.
5. Lack of Handrails:
-Issue: Absence of handrails on staircases or in bathrooms.
-Solution: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of staircases and in bathrooms to provide support. Local Occupational Therapists are able to assist with this and can be referred to by your GP.
6. Uneven Surfaces:
-Issue: Uneven flooring or transitions between rooms.
-Solution: Address uneven surfaces and transitions. Install ramps or level flooring where needed.
7. Unstable Furniture:
-Issue: Wobbly or unsteady furniture.
-Solution: Secure furniture to walls if necessary. Repair or replace unstable pieces.
8. High Shelves and Cabinets:
- Issue: Difficult-to-reach items in high storage spaces.
-Solution: Rearrange frequently used items to lower shelves. Use step stools with handrails for safer access.
9. Cords and Wires:
- Issue: Tripping hazards from loose cords and wires.
-Solution: Use cable organisers to manage cords. Tape down or secure wires along walls and baseboards. Unsure cords are kept tidy and out of main walkways.
10. Inadequate Bathroom Safety:
-Issue: Lack of grab bars, anti-slip measures or needing to sit down in the shower or when dressing. You may also have difficulty standing up and sitting down on the toilet.
-Solution: It may be beneficial to install grab bars near toilets and in showers or look at using bathroom equipment. Local Occupational Therapists are able to assist with this and can be referred to by your GP.
Taking proactive steps to identify and address fall hazards in your home is essential for maintaining a safe living environment. Regular assessments, adjustments, and the implementation of safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of falls, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Remember, a little effort in home safety goes a long way in preventing accidents and injuries.
Feel free to contact The Rehab Team, local physiotherapists in Papamoa and Tauranga to see how we can help. Our knowledgeable physios are mobile and can come and see you in your own home or rest home. We look after people in Tauranga, Papamoa, Mount Maunganui and surrounding areas in the Bay of Plenty.
