As we age, our bodies don’t work quite as well as it used to. When we become older adults, this degeneration of our bodies can become hazardous. We become prone to falling in our own home for a number of reasons, from poor balance due to poor circulation in some part of our bodies to loss of leg strength. And yet we want to keep our independence as much as possible. Yet how do you do that and minimize the risk of falls at home at the same time? We have put together a home fall prevention checklist for older adults and tips on home medical equipment that can minimize the risk.
Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults.
Living Room/Family Room/Study.
[ ] The furniture is moved in a way that there are clear pathways.
[ ] Rugs have been either removed or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won’t slip.
[ ] Objects off the floor like papers, books, towels, shoes, magazines, boxes, blankets.
[ ] Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall so they do not become trip hazards.
Suggested Medial Equipment.
Lift Chairs
Lift Chairs look similar to your standard recliner but can do so much more. With a lift chair, the person sitting in the chair can be lifted to a standing position. This minimizes the risk of falling from getting up too quickly or having to balance while trying to get from a sitting to standing positions.
Kitchen.
[ ] Use shelving that is not too high (waist level shelving preferred).
Stairs and Hallways.
[ ] All objects are off the stairs like papers, books, towels, shoes, magazines, boxes, blankets.
[ ] Make sure there aren’t any loose or uneven steps.
[ ] Overhead Light at the top and bottom of the stairs.
[ ] Light switches that glow in the dark at the top and bottom of the stairs.
[ ] Fix any loose handrails.
[ ] Handrails are on both sides of the stairs and are as long as the stairs.
[ ] Make sure there is no loose carpet on the stairs. Consider non-slip rubber treads on the stairs instead of carpet.
Bedroom.
[ ] Bed light is close to the bed so it is not hard to reach.
[ ] Night-light so you can see the walking path and where furniture is.
[ ] Furniture is moved to where there are clear pathways to frequently used areas at night, like the bathroom.
[ ] Objects off the floor like papers, books, towels, shoes, magazines, boxes, blankets.
Other Mobility Aids.
There is other home medical equipment that can help older adults prevent falls and live independently.
Knee Walkers.
If you have one leg that is injured or recovering from injury or aliment, then a knee walker is a good fit to help older adults move around without falling. Safer than crutches and more mobility than wheelchairs, knee walkers allow you more mobility and also allows you to completely rest, hands-free, whereas you must be standing and securing yourself at all times otherwise. To learn more about Knee Walkers, please read our Complete Guide to Knee walkers and Knee Scooters. Here at Bayshore Medical Supply in Pasadena, TX, we carry over 50 knee walkers in various sizes.
Canes.
If your leg issue is above the knee, a cane can be used for help with balance and stability. To find the right size cane for you, when you stand up in your normal posture with the cane tip on the ground, the handle of the cane should be next to the top of your leg. Your elbow should be slightly bent. With canes, wrist straps can be added to the cane so that an individual’s hands can be free without putting the cane down. In regard to stairs though, do not use the cane without the use of handrails or another individual to ensure balance considering canes are used with only one hand.
Walkers.
For added extra balance, walkers are more stable than canes but do require both hands. The walker should be at a height that allows the individual’s shoulders to be level and the arms bent at a 20 to 30-degree angle. Walkers can fold so they can be put out of the way when not in use.
Wheelchair
If you have issues with using both legs, whether because of an injury or illness to the back or legs, a wheelchair can be a great tool for preventing falls. Wheelchairs are not just for people who can’t walk. If your legs get tired easily or your back causes you problems from simply standing or walking, consider a wheelchair for easier mobility. Bayshore Medical Supply carries wheelchairs in a range of seat widths and depths, with adjustable foot and backrests ensuring that the wheelchair can be fitted correctly. We also carry foldable wheelchairs, so they take up less space and do not become a hazard when not in use.
Whether you are becoming an older adult or caring for an older adult, preventing falls at home is essential for both physical and mental health. Taking the right steps and using the right mobility aids can lead to a more independent life.
Bayshore Medical Supply has been the source for medical supplies in the Pasadena and Southeast Houston TX area for over 20 years. We’re open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00am to 5:30pm, Thursday 9:00am to 8:00pm, and Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Come see us at 4205 Spencer Hwy Pasadena, TX 77504.
