Keeping Your Home Free of Slips and Falls

By Donna Stark

Everyone is at risk for an accidental fall, but it's our seniors who we really need to look after because they are the ones dealing with more daily challenges than anyone else. Challenges like age, health conditions, and fitness levels can make a huge impact on how well they can move and hold themselves upright. If you are a senior, or if you have a loved one who is, it is vital to keep safety a priority. Take a look at the following suggestions from your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic that will help reduce the risk of falls for everyone.

Check Railings

Whether it is for just a few steps or an entire flight of stairs, railings should be installed in every home. Railings provide something to hold onto when walking up or down the stairs. They can be used for a balance check every now and then or they can be used to catch someone who is in the process of falling. Everyone can benefit from a set of stair railings, so make sure the home has some. And if railings are already installed, give them a quick look over to make sure they are secure. A loose railing isn't much better than having no railing at all. In fact, it could actually cause a terrible fall.

Clean the Home

A clean, clutter-free home is a safe one. Keep the floors, stairs, and walkways clear of objects by putting things away and getting rid of the items you don't need anymore. Don't let too many days pass before you pick up either and always resist the temptation to place things on the stairs to be taken up later. Ensuring the safety of everyone in the home should be a daily priority!

Update Bathrooms

There are plenty of things you can do that will help make the bathroom a safer place to be in for your loved ones. For a simple update, you can install shower or bathtub rails and extra handles around the toilet, or you can do a complete makeover and invest in a shower that includes a place to sit or a bathtub that has doors on it.

Staying on Your Feet and Off the Ground

Taking the time to ensure the safety of yourself or your loved ones is one of the most important things you can do, especially if it helps to reduce the risk of accidental falls. The steps above are a great starting point for anyone, but if you would like to learn more on how to keep the home safe, just ask a professional.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Vancouver, Wash.