One in every three adults 65 years old or older falls each year, according to Lori Scheffers, an RN who is program director of inpatient physical rehabilitation at Takoma Adventist Hospital.

   “Most falls occur in the home and are preventable,” Scheffers said. “Falls can affect seniors in many ways. If a senior falls and is injured, their ability to live independently decreases. Even a fall that doesn’t cause injury can limit confidence and the ability to be comfortable living independently.”

   There are five key risk factors of falls among older adults, Scheffers said. “Osteoporosis, lack of physical activity, impaired vision, medications and environmental hazards all contribute,” she said.

   Here’s a checklist to help make your home a safer place:

ENTRANCES

·        Install handrails, preferably on both sides of the steps.

·        Cover porch steps with gritty, weather-proof paint.

·        Install ample lighting.

·        Use proper footwear with good tread.

·        Consider adding a ramp into the home.

LIVING ROOM/DINING ROOM

·        Arrange furniture items, such as coffee tables, so they don’t become obstacles.

·        Remove clutter, including electrical cords and telephone wires.

·        Use chairs and couches that have arm rests and back support, and are easy to sit down and stand up.

·        Use a remote-control television.

·        Use a programmable and portable telephone.

·        Watch out for small pets; they can trip you.

BEDROOM

·        Place a light at the bedside.

·        Place a nightlight between the bedroom and bathroom.

·        Keep a telephone at the bedside, preferably with large numbers.

·        Use siderails on the bed.

·        Use a bedside commode, if needed.

BATHROOM

·        Keep a chair at the sink.

·        Keep grooming items within easy reach.

·        Use an over-the-toilet commode seat, raised toilet seat, or install rails, preferably on both sides of the toilet.

·        Use a hand-held showerhead.

·        Use soap on a rope.

·        Remove glass shower doors and replace with a shower curtain.

·        Use non-skid mats or raised strips inside and outside the tub or shower.

·        Have a chair or bench in the shower stall or bathtub.

·        Install grab bars in the bathtub/shower area.

·        If possible, wait for assistance when getting in and out of tub.

KITCHEN

·        Remove all throw rubs.

·        Cover linoleum floors with non-skid floor wax.

·        Reorganize cabinets, so every-day items are within easy reach (not in high or low cabinets).

·        Try to place one hand on steady surface or countertop when opening refrigerator door.

·        Make sure chairs are the correct height and offer back support.

·        Place high chair at sink if fatigue is an issue.

·        Use a pushcart when transferring hot or heavy objects from the stove to the table.

WHEN DRESSING

·        Choose proper-fitting footwear, wear shoes that are supple, have a low, broad heel, and a soft sole.

·        Sit while putting on socks and shoes.

·        Make sure nightgowns and dresses are short enough to avoid tripping when standing or climbing stairs.

·        Use adaptive aides, i.e., sock aide reacher and long handled shoe horn.

·        Avoid stairs and waxed floors when in stocking feet.

MOBILITY

·        Limit or avoid alcohol intake as it slows balance reactions.

·        Scoot to the edge of the chair and lean forward before standing up.

·        Stand still for a moment before walking.

·        Consider using cane tip.

·        Add basket on front of walker.

·        Stay within confines of walker when turning or twisting.

·        Wear lightweight shoes with non-skid soles.

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

·        Stay as active as possible, as this creates stronger bones, muscles, joints and better overall balance.

·        Be aware of the side effects of medications.

·        If taking water pills, plan ahead and use the bathroom regularly.

·        Cover slippery surfaces with carpet or rugs that are in good repair. Anchor them firmly to the floor, backing area rugs with non-skid rubber.

·        Install easy-to-reach light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.

·        Use handrails on stairs.

·        Avoid climbing on ladders or stools.

·        Note surface changes, i.e., grass to sidewalk, or vinyl to carpet.

·        Investigate use of “1^st Alert” device.

   For more information, please call our Center for Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation at 636-0429.