Home Instead Hammersmith & Chiswick's Fall Prevention and Safety Tips
Opening windows for fresh air, tidying up the house? Yes, it’s time for spring cleaning! But let’s take this time to reflect on simple ways to make a home safer, particularly for older loved ones.
At Home Instead Hammersmith & Chiswick, we help our clients stay safe and comfortable in their own homes. We know how common and serious falls can be. Luckily, a few quick changes can make a big difference.
Spring Cleaning? Think Safety Too
Here is how you can make your home safer to help prevent accidents:
– Clear Some Space
Shoes, bags, and other bits left on the floor can easily be tripped over. Keep hallways, stairs, and doorways free from clutter.
– Safer Floors
Why risk it with loose rugs and trailing wires? Use non-slip mats and tuck cables neatly behind furniture or along the wall.
– Light It Up
Replace dim or broken bulbs, especially on stairs and in bathrooms. And for those nighttime loo visits, nothing’s better than a nightlight.
– Keep Things Handy
Items you use every day, like the kettle or medicines, should be stored within easy reach. Avoid stretching or climbing!
– Clean Smart
Use a stable step stool with a handle to reach high areas. Better yet, stick to long-handled tools and keep both feet on the ground.
Simple Home Updates
No need to risk a trip to the hospital. Just see how these tiny fixes can help:
- Fit grab rails in the bathroom or near the stairs.
- Use non-slip mats in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Rearrange furniture to make more space for moving around.
- Lose the socks and loose slippers, and rather encourage wearing well-fitting shoes with a good grip.
Don’t Forget the Health Side
Fall prevention is one thing, but keeping your health levels in check is another:
– Keep active with gentle exercise like walking or stretching.
– Book regular eye and hearing checks, as these can affect your balance.
– Eat healthy meals and drink plenty of water to boost energy.
– Review medications with your GP or pharmacist if they cause dizziness.
Local Help is at Hand
At Home Instead Hammersmith & Chiswick, we work closely with the local falls-prevention teams in Fulham and Chiswick. We’re also proud to run a twice-weekly falls recovery programme in partnership with the Hurlingham Club in Fulham, which is specially designed for anyone who’s had a recent fall.
We’re also excited to present new classes at the refurbished Chiswick Health Centre, which is great for improving balance and strength. And don’t forget about our fall prevention info sessions in Ealing.
Looking for a fun, local way to stay active in Fulham or Chiswick?? Our gentle dance classes, run in partnership with the fantastic charity Move Into Wellbeing, are a lovely way to stay active if you’ve had falls in the past. Why not come along to our St Dionis class in Fulham and give it a go?
Let’s Keep Each Other Safe
While visiting an older friend, neighbour, or relative, look out for tripping hazards, poor lighting, or hard-to-reach items. Sometimes a simple conversation can make a big difference.
And remember: if you or someone you care about needs extra support at home, we’re here to help. Call our friendly and professional team at Home Instead Hammersmith & Chiswick on 0208 746 1213 or pop into our office in Chiswick or Fulham. You can also request our Stand Up to Falls guide or pick up one of our handy fall-prevention checklists.
