Environmental Risk Factors

Home Safety Living Environment For Fall Prevention

Statistics

Falls are the leading cause of injury death amongst seniors in San Diego County.
Of the 355,613 seniors in San Diego County, 118,000 will fall this year (1 in 3).
Of these, 88,000 (75%) will fall a second time within 6 months of the first fall.
20-30% of seniors that fall will suffer injuries that cause them to lose their independence.

What can you DO to not become a statistic?

Improve your home safety by making your living environment as safe as possible.
Use your assistive device at all times in your apartment. Don’t take risks, low reward.
Be honest with yourself, ask for help when it is needed. Report your falls to the staff.
Exercise daily and improve your strength and balance. Like brushing your teeth.

Walkways

Need enough clearance for walkers/canes to get through easily. Direct path is best.
Remove all throw rugs unless taped double sided- loose corners can cause tripping.
Lighting at night- place nightlights along path from bedroom to bathroom.
Lamps, extension cords, telephone cords are outside of walking path.

Bathrooms

Get a toilet seat riser if it is difficult to get off the toilet or you have to pull yourself up.
No throw rugs unless taped double sided- big-time risk for tripping on them.
Use a shower bench (different kinds) if you feel even a little unsteady on your feet.
Install a non-slip mat in the shower to prevent slipping.
Make sure you have enough handrails installed to grab onto for safety. No towel racks.
Move medicines/toiletries from cabinet to close proximity to reduce reaching.

Bedroom

Sitting on edge of bed thighs are parallel to the floor with feet firmly on the floor.
Bed covering hangs above the floor so you will not step on it.
Mattress does not sag and is supportive when lying on it.
Phone is within easy reach of bed and has large numbers on it to see it.
Bedside commode available if nighttime trips to the bathroom are difficult.

Furniture, etc.

Do not use furniture while walking in apartment. Especially unstable furniture.
Low tables, coffee tables are located out of walking path, especially with low vision.
Sofa/chair is at appropriate height for sitting. Thighs parallel to floor. Chair Risers needed?
Phone us within easy reach of sitting location.
Easy path to blinds on windows, no reaching. Good lighting throughout house.

For more Information about home care Please call:
Affordable & Quality Home Care Services
760-468-3075