Falls Prevention Facts

Learn how to secure stairways and other simple strategies for fall-proofing your home, with the help of handyman Jay Baker.

According from the Center for Disease and Prevention the number one cause of injury, deaths among older adults is falling. And although most of those falls happen at home, they don’t always just happen to seniors. But there are a few easy steps you take around your home to make it accident free and the first place to look is your own steps. Make sure all stairs and steps no matter the size or number have the secured handrail and are well-lit. Check the wattage on all your bulb to make sure they are bright enough for the area they are covering. In areas that seek traffic in the middle of the night such as the bathroom, kitchen, and hallways leading to them, plug in a few night lights and don’t skip. With water in the mix, bathrooms become especially important. Let me show you what I mean. These surfaces are dry right now so there is no problem, when you get them wet it is a different ballgame. This tile can be very dangerous. But here we have a rubberized mat with the surface on the bottom that wont slide. Put that on the tile, your problems are over here. What about inside the tub or inside the shower? Well, they make mats out of rubber or vinyl, with these suction cups on them. You get them wet, clean the surface, push them down, this mat is not going to go anywhere and neither are you. For the tub, pick some of these cool decals. Just peel off the backing and stick them on for a firm footing. If it all possible, have a grab bar installed in your bathroom near the tub. That will give you something to hold to getting in and out, and remember towel racks are no good. Never expect them to support your weight. Small rugs on the house are another tripping hazard. If it all possible, avoid using them and if you already have a few, just tape them to the floor, so that they don’t slip. Last but not least, always clean up your spills and try to keep your house clutter free. Stuff all over the floor is a sure fire recipe for disaster. With tips for a healthy home, I’m Jay Baker.