As we grow older, our risk of falling increases and so does the risk of serious injury from a fall. Most trips, slips, and falls happen in and around the home. Here are some simple things you can do to reduce your risk and help prevent falls at home.
To view/download our one-pager on how to prevent falls in your bathroom and kitchen (PDF format) click /tap the thumbnail above.
The Bathroom
- Use a non-slip mat inside and outside the tub or shower
- Install grab bars by the toilet and in the tub and shower area
- Purchase a non-slip bath and shower bench to get in and out safely
- Install a raised toilet seat to make getting on and off easier
The Kitchen
- Replace loose scatter mats with rugs that have a rubber backing
- Wipe up spills Immediately
- Keep items on shelves within easy reach
- Make sure no extension cords cross your path
- Never climb on a chair or stool to reach for something
- Use non-slip floor wax
- Add gliders to your chairs to make moving them easier when you sit down or get up from the table
Seven Tips to Help Prevent Falls at Home
Unfortunately, one in every three Canadians more than 65-years of age will experience a fall, along with common injuries, such as hip, wrists and pelvic fractures. If you’ve been injured in a fall, you know the impact it can have on your life. A serious fall, especially if you’re a senior, can take away your sense of independence and affect your confidence in living your life to the fullest.
Plan ahead. Follow these seven tips and precautions to avoid a fall at home:
1. Reduce clutter around your house
Time for some spring cleaning. Get rid of loose particles, such as rugs to prevent you from slipping or tripping in your home. Reduce the clutter of unneeded furniture to help create a much safer environment.
2. Ensure easy transfers in and out of the bath
Water on bath tiles can make them dangerously slippery. Install grab bars and non-slip decals in your bathroom to help you get in and out of the tub, as an affordable addition to minimize your chances of slipping and falling.
3. Wear non-slip footwear
Many of us wear slippers around the house, especially during the colder months. Making sure your slippers have traction and are non-slip can help prevent you from falling in your home.
4. Have your eyesight and hearing checked every year
Having your vision and hearing regularly checked is vital. If your hearing or vision is impaired, you can miss important cues that help maintain your balance.
5. Exercise regularly
Although it can be a daunting task, exercising to improve strength, coordination and balance help to prevent a fall at home.
6. Have your medications evaluated
If you visit multiple doctors, it’s possible to end up with several prescriptions. If you evaluate the medication you are on, you can decrease the risk of side effects. This step may also help you keep your senses in check while keeping you balanced and upright.
7. Have your strength and balance tested
If your mobility level is low, you may also have poor balance, which puts you at a higher risk of falling. Being mobile and continuing to improve your balance is vital to help prevent falls and injuries. Visit a chiropractor to test your strength and balance. Using these tests and their clinical expertise, your chiropractor can identify your weaknesses and recommend treatment to address them.
To view/download our double-sided, three-panel brochure for simple tips & exercises on how to prevent falls (PDF format) click/tap the thumbnail above.
To find a chiropractor near you, use the chiropractor locator on our website. In Ontario, you can visit a chiropractor without a referral from a doctor, nurse practitioner, or other health care professional.