A checklist for preventing falls

By Sharon Elliott



Safety and security are topics that are important to us all. We all expect our homes and

communities to be safe. But crime reports from across the country and around the world can shake our sense of security and increase our feelings of vulnerability and fear. Often we are left with fears that are out of proportion to their actual risk. So, it always important to have perspective and address the issues that really impact us the most.

Sometimes the biggest risks actually get the least attention. So, I would like to focus some attention on a very real home safety issue that doesn’t always get as much tending as it deserves.

It is one that can put you in danger in your own home if you aren’t careful, but it is a risk that is very easy to prevent, and is especially important for seniors. Can you guess what it is? If you guessed falling you are right! The risk of falling is a bigger home security issue than many people realize. And often, those who do know have learned the hard way. But, ‘fall proofing’ your home is easy and important for everyone. With a few modifications you can greatly reduce your risks.

First of all, throw rugs, mats, and loose carpets can be a real danger. I, myself, have sailed down a few hallways and across a number of living rooms while visiting seniors over the years. It is important to make sure these floor coverings are slide proof and the edges do not curl and create a tripping hazard.

Clutter, such as books, magazines, and cords pose a common tripping hazard. But, clean, slippery, shiny floors can be just as dangerous if you’re foot ware does not have not-slip soles.

So, make sure your walking areas are clear and you are wearing the proper foot ware.

It is also very important to keep stairways clean from clutter. Steps should not be treated as extra shelving units. Slippery steps or loose and torn carpet on stairs should also be addressed. And handrails need to be installed and used.

Good lighting is very important in taking safe steps. Whether it be extra night lights, brighter lighting, or the need for an electrician to install extra lights and switches, the proper lighting can make a huge safety difference. This is especially true if you have pets.

Pets don’t seem to understand that we can’t see as well as they do in the dark. In fact, not too long ago, I was going down the stairs in my own home, arms full, and didn’t see my cat sitting on one of the steps. Within the split of a second I was on the floor at the bottom of the steps. What surprised me most was how fast the fall took place. There was no time to adjust my footing, no time to grab the railing, and no time to try and land gracefully. I can tell you from my own experience that falling is not fun. And, I do (now) follow my own “fall proofing� advice!

If you are interested in learning more about ‘fall proofing’ your home, call for a free home check and visit. There is a lot of great information available to help keep you and your home safe. So, take the next step in making all your steps safe ones!

For more information on safety and security tips, please contact Sharon Elliott at 665- 4481. Or, by email at sharon.elliott@rcmp-grc.gc.ca



Sharon Elliott is Seniors’ Safety coordinator in Annapolis County.