We all have accidents from time to time – we might miss our footing and trip over a kerb or fall over one of the kid’s toys. But for elderly people, a fall is a lot more dangerous. Older people are more likely to have a fall – over the age of 75, falls are the most common cause of death related to injury.
Some of the reasons why older people are more likely to have a fall are because they have poor balance, mobility problems and weaker muscles, ailing vision dementia, or dizziness brought on by age related illnesses like high blood pressure.
A fall for an elderly person can have serious consequences, but there are some things that you can do to protect against this happening.
One of the first things that may help, is the use of WAV vehicles. These include wheelchairs and disability scooters and when used out and about are a great way of getting around safely. Within the home, there are also some practical steps that you can take to prevent a fall.
Make sure that passageways and rooms, and in particular areas around the stairs are well lit, and that the floor is visible. Also make sure that light switches are in easy reach.
Make sure that flooring is as non-slip as possible particularly in the bathroom. Add handrails and non-slip mats to places like in and outside of the shower where the risk of falling is higher.