For families across New Jersey, the primary goal is often helping a loved one continue aging in place—safely and comfortably in their own home. However, as mobility changes, the very environment designed for comfort can become a source of danger.
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults. Performing a thorough home safety assessment is the single most effective step you can take to prevent these incidents.
At Comfort Care NJ, we consider fall prevention a non-negotiable part of our in-home care assistance. Here are 10 critical tips from our experts to help secure your loved one's home today.
1. Eliminate Throw Rugs and Loose Carpets
Why it Matters: Throw rugs, even with rubber backing, are a major tripping hazard. They catch toes easily, especially when ambulating with a cane or walker.
- Tip: Remove all non-essential area rugs. For necessary rugs, secure the edges with double-sided tape or switch to wall-to-wall carpeting.
2. Install Grab Bars in Key Bathroom Areas
Why it Matters: The bathroom is the most common site for falls due to wet, slippery surfaces and the need to transition between standing and sitting (toilet, tub).
- Tip: Install sturdy, professional-grade grab bars near the toilet and inside the tub or shower. Never rely on towel racks—they cannot support body weight.
3. Ensure Adequate Lighting, Especially at Night
Why it Matters: Poor visibility leads to missed steps, misplaced objects, and difficulties navigating transitions between rooms.
- Tip: Install bright, glare-free lighting in hallways and staircases. Use nightlights in the bedroom, bathroom, and paths between them. Consider motion-sensor lights.
4. Clear Walkways of Clutter and Obstacles
Why it Matters: Clutter is not just messy; it’s a constant tripping risk. Items on the floor are impossible to see for seniors with visual impairment or those focused on using their walker.
- Tip: Ensure all pathways, especially those leading to the bathroom or kitchen, are clear of power cords, magazines, small pieces of furniture, and pet toys.
5. Address Electrical Cords and Telephone Wires
Why it Matters: Long cords stretching across a room are a classic trip hazard that can send a senior tumbling.
- Tip: Use furniture to conceal cords along walls, or use floor cord covers and protectors to secure them flat against the floor. Never run them under rugs.
6. Improve Staircase Safety
Why it Matters: Stairs are a multi-hazard zone, requiring balance, strength, and clear vision.
- Tip: Ensure there are sturdy handrails on both sides of the staircase. Clearly mark the edges of each step with high-contrast, non-slip tape if possible.
7. Make Everyday Items Easily Accessible
Why it Matters: Reaching and stretching for items on high shelves or bending low into cabinets significantly disrupts balance and stability.
- Tip: Reorganize the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Place frequently used items between hip and shoulder height. A reacher tool can help minimize bending.
8. Monitor Footwear and Clothing
Why it Matters: Falls aren't just caused by the house; they can be caused by what the person is wearing.
- Tip: Encourage your loved one to wear supportive, non-skid shoes indoors, even slippers with a good grip. Avoid long, flowing robes or loose pant legs that can get tangled in a walker or wheelchair.
9. Review Medications with a Physician
Why it Matters: Certain medications, especially those for sleep, anxiety, or blood pressure, can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or instability.
- Tip: Have a doctor or pharmacist review all current medications to check for side effects that increase fall risk. Our home care staff can assist with medication reminders and monitoring.
10. Bring in Professional Home Care Assistance
Why it Matters: Even a perfectly safe home cannot compensate for physical weakness, declining judgment, or fatigue.
- Tip: A Comfort Care NJ professional provides continuous supervision, ambulation assistance, and direct support during high-risk activities (like bathing or getting out of bed), preventing falls before they happen. This is the ultimate fall prevention tool.
Ready for a Home Safety Assessment?
Protecting your loved one starts with a proactive plan. Comfort Care NJ is ready to provide the expert support and in-home care that makes aging in place safe and sustainable for your family in New Jersey.
Add comment
Comments