Senior life: What can I do to prevent a fall?

In my work as a home health occupational therapist, this is one of the most common questions I get. Many people are frightened of falling, and indeed it is a legitimate concern.

According to the Center for Disease Control (2006), falls are the leading cause of injury death for people over the age of 65. More often than not, after someone has fallen, their loved ones will say they were worried their mother or father was going to fall, they just didn't know what to do about it.

The good news is that there are many simple steps seniors and their family can take to prevent a fall in their home! Let's go through the top five ways to prevent a fall in the home.

1. Install grab bars in and out of the shower. As an extra safety measure, if it is tempting to hold a towel rack for support, replace that towel rack with a grab bar. Grab bars can double as a towel rack, but will also support you if you need it.

2. Use non-slip surfaces in and outside of the shower, in front of sinks, and any other place there is the potential for water on tile or wood floors.

3. Examine the home for trips hazards. Frequently found trip hazards include throw rugs, electrical cords and clutter.

4. Check that the home has good lighting. A light next to one's bed is a great idea, as well as a night light in hallways and bathroom.

5. Make sure that beds and chairs are a safe height to get in and out of. Surfaces that are too low or too high can be difficult and unsafe. In addition, many people use an elevated toilet seat to make toileting easier.

Prevention is the key when it comes to falls with our aging loved ones.

A free home safety checklist is available at www.safeandindependent.com. This checklist goes through a home, room by room, giving suggestions for fall prevention. Taking a pro-active approach now can prevent a fall later, allowing people to continue leading safe and independent lives.

Linda Schlenker is an occupational therapist specializing in home health care and fall prevention among the elderly. For more information, visit www.safeandindependent.com or call (602) 576-3828.