Reducing Falls at Home in Three Easy Steps

Falling at home can be one of the biggest fears for seniors. An accident can lead to extended hospital stays, prolonged injuries and future anxiety. Falls can be prevented, though! STAAR Alert offers three easy steps to reduce falls in any home:

1. Conduct a medical assessment

The root of most falls can be traced to an underlying medical condition. Ensure your loved one is getting enough exercise, has sharp vision and does not have any balance issues. Also keep track of medications that can make them dizzy, drowsy or have risky interactions.

2. Eliminate all hazards

Nothing is worth suffering a fall, so conduct an assessment on each room of the house to eliminate any risks. Look for uneven floors, tripping hazards and poor lighting. Ensure that the furniture leaves enough space to move around easily, especially if using walkers or canes.

3. Utilize safety equipment

Small changes can be easy and affordable to make around the house. Consider grab bars wherever an extra hand is needed, especially in the restroom. Lights are also essential in any dark areas.