Did you know 30% of people over 65 will fall at least once a year? Having a fall in your home can be quite scary but there are a few things you can do to prevent it.
Tips for you:
Assess your home or book an assessment with us to make sure your home is clear of hazards
Get your eyes checked once a year after you turn 65
Join an exercise class to improve your strength and balance
Have your emergency numbers handy, like next to your bed and in the bathroom.
Tips for your home and garden:
Outside & garden area:
Make sure you have appropriate handrails along stairways and ramps
Ensure access areas and pathways are free of obstacles
Check your decks, stairs and railings are always in good repair
Bathroom:
Install grab rails at showers, baths and toilets
Remove your shower hob or bath and install an accessible shower
Have anti-slip solution painted on your bathroom tiles
Kitchen:
Don’t store heavy items in high cupboards
Have electrical items checked by an electrician to make sure they are all in working order
Make sure all your heavily used items are easy to access
Around the house:
Keep stairways and passage ways clear
If you have rugs, secure them down to make sure they don’t move with you.
Ensure there is adequate lighting and easy switches
Make sure all the electrical cords are tucked away and not in access areas
If you’d like an Occupational Therapist or one of our builders to come out and complete an safety assessment on your (or someone you care about) home please give us a call today – 02 6651 2143
I’ve been trying to come up with a good way to make my home safer. I didn’t know that handrails were so important! I’ll be sure to have them installed as soon as I can.