Fall Prevention Tips: A Home Safety Guide from Home Instead Lancaster
Helpful fall-prevention tips from Home Instead Lancaster; practical spring-cleaning advice to make homes safer for older adults and reduce tripping hazards.
Spring is a time for fresh starts; for many of us, that means a good spring clean. But beyond dusting and decluttering, it’s also a perfect time to relook at a home’s safety factor.
At Home Instead Lancaster, we support our clients and community to live well and independently in their own homes. We know that falls are one of the biggest causes of injury for older adults, but many can be avoided with a few small changes. So, while you’re tackling the dust and clutter, why not take some easy steps to help reduce fall risks?
Easy Safety Wins During Your Spring Clean
As you’re sprucing up the house this spring, here are a few quick and easy ways to make it safer:
Clear High-Traffic Areas
– Remove clutter like shoes, bags, or boxes from walkways.
– Keep stairs, corridors, and doorways completely clear.
Secure Floors
– Add non-slip underlays to rugs or remove them altogether.
– Keep wires and cables out of walking paths by tucking them behind furniture or along walls.
Improve Lighting
– Ensure all bulbs are working and bright enough, especially in stairways and bathrooms.
– Use nightlights in bedrooms and hallways for better visibility at night.
Reorganise Essentials
– Store everyday items at waist level, so no more reaching up or bending down unnecessarily.
– Make sure essentials like medications and toiletries are easy to access.
Use the Right Tools
– Avoid balancing on chairs; use a proper step stool with a handle to reach high places.
– Use long-handled tools to clean higher areas without climbing at all.
Simple Home Fixes That Help Prevent Falls
Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference. Try these:
– Install grab rails in bathrooms and on stairways for extra stability.
– Add non-slip mats where floors tend to get slippery, like the bathroom and kitchen.
– Create more space and reduce tight corners by moving furniture around.
– Wear sensible footwear with proper grip, as they’re a safer alternative than socks or loose slippers.
Health Habits That Support Fall Prevention
Home safety is just one piece of the puzzle, as good health habits are just as important.
Stay Busy
Gentle activities, like stretching or short walks, help with strength and balance.
Book Check-Ups
Regular vision and hearing checks can help spot issues and reduce the risk of falling.
Eat and Drink Well
A healthy diet and proper hydration help boost strong bones and overall well-being.
Review Medications
Some prescriptions can cause dizziness. If you’re unsure about yours, speak with your GP or pharmacist.
Fall Prevention Clinic
The Royal Lancaster Infirmary’s Falls Prevention Clinic provides specialist assessments, while the local Age UK branch runs balance and stability classes.
How You Can Help a Loved One
Visiting an older friend or family member in Lancaster? Keep an eye out for safety concerns by:
– Offering to help declutter or move furniture.
– Suggesting small fixes like a grab rail or brighter lighting.
– Chatting about their daily routine, as it might highlight areas where more support is needed.
Need a Bit of Extra Support?
At Home Instead Lancaster, we’re here to help our clients live comfortably and safely at home. Whether it’s a regular visit or just popping in for a chat, our friendly care team is ready to support you or a loved one.
Call us on 0152 495 1574 for a chat about how we can help.