Did you know that every second worldwide a person aged 65 years or over falls? Falling can have different consequences, both physical if psychological After a fall many people develop fear of falling again, which can lead to the avoidance of certain activities, reduced social interactions and a decrease in quality of life. Therefore, it is very important in several ways to prevent falls.
Fall prevention requires a multidisciplinary approach This may include starting a training program with a physiotherapist to improve mobility and balance, reviewing medication, or consulting an ophthalmologist for custom solutions in case of impaired vision or eye problems.
At the same time, it is essential to ensure that you make home safe and adapt, which can make a world of difference. With a few simple adjustments and solutions you can make your environment'fallproof'.
Safe living in your own home
To avoid falling as much as possible, you should take into account the following:
Suitable shoes: Always wear well fitting footwear, both inside and outside. Improperly sitting shoes or shoes with smooth soles reduce your balance and increase the risk of slipping and falling. Choose shoes, slippers and sandals with Anti-slip soles.
Safety in the bathroom and at the toilet: Bathrooms and toilets are additional risk areas if your mobility is limited. Most of the events occur in the bathroom because of wet and smooth Floors You can reduce this by wearing shoes or slippers with non-slip soles and using slip mats. In addition, handles and wall brackets can provide extra stability and reduce the risk of falling, especially during toilet visits, showering or bathtubs.
Anti-slip mats: Always place non-slip mats in the shower or bath, as well as for the sink and toilet. Make sure these mats are specially designed for this purpose and of good quality to prevent potential hazards.
Toilet applicants: For people who have difficulty sitting or getting up again, toilet applicants can be a convenient solution. There are different types of toilet applicants available to meet different needs.
Shower seats: A shower seat is easy to install and offers considerable help. There are several options available, including seats that can be placed on flat or curved surfaces and seats with a padded backrest for extra comfort.
Handles and wall brackets: Install handles in and around the bath or shower, as well as on both sides of the toilet. Do not use towel holders as a replacement for sturdy grip bars, because they are not designed to carry weight. Choose stainless steel handles with a protective layer resistant to rust and bacteria growth in damp areas.
These are some important steps to make your home safer and prevent falls, especially as you get older and your mobility decreases. It is important to seriously consider these adjustments to protect yourself or your loved ones from the risks of falling.