Tips For A More Accessible Home

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shared some startling facts about falls and injuries among seniors. For example, nearly 3 million older adults annually visit the emergency room for fall-related injuries. Of those who fall, nearly one-third are hospitalized, while one out of 10 endures an injury that restricts their ability to do everyday tasks. 

Furthermore, the majority of falls (76%) happen indoors, usually at home. 

Falls happen, but they don’t have to be an inevitable part of aging. And while you can’t control every environment, you can make your home more accessible and safe. 

Why Is Accessibility Important

Falling might not seem like a big deal on the surface. When you’re younger and fall, you can get up and continue your day without much pain or suffering. However, when you get older, falls can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, concussions, and, in severe cases, death. 

Many factors contribute to your fall risk, but having an accessible home is something you can control that can help keep you safe.

Accessibility Tips For Your Home

There are many ways you can make your home more accessible. You can start with simple home organization strategies or small gadgets. If it’s within your budget, you may also consider home renovations. 

Home Organization 

Home organization strategies are the quickest and most cost-efficient way to make your home more accessible and reduce fall risk. 

• Clear your walkways and doorways of any clutter.
• Place your most used item in easily accessible places, such as the lowest shelf in cabinets and closets. 
• Keep the most used items on the main floor if you have a multiple-story home. 
• Get rid of anything you don’t regularly use to reduce clutter in the home.

Home Gadgets

Home gadgets are small investments that can significantly impact your safety and well-being. Most gadgets can be found at a local convenience store or online. 

• Ensure all rugs and floor mats are non-slip, especially in the bathroom.
• Place handrails or grab rails near doorways and in the bathroom to make it easier to navigate your home. 
• Purchase a shower chair so you can safely sit while showering. 
• Place night lights in the hallways and your most used rooms so you can see where you’re walking at night. 
• Consider a grabber tool to help you reach items on high shelves. 

Home Renovations

Home renovations can be expensive, but if it's within your budget, you may want to consider some renovations to help make your home more accessible.

• Install ramps leading into your home from outside so you don’t have to use the stairs.
• Install a stair ramp indoors to help you access all your floors.
• Purchase a walk-in shower with a built-in chair or bench for more accessible bathing.

Staying Safe At Home With Visiting Angels 

A major part of Visiting Angels’ mission is ensuring clients live safely at home, which includes helping to keep a home tidy and organized to reduce the risk of falls. Our Safe and Steady Fall Prevention Program helps clients stay safe by providing physical assistance, assessing environmental risks, designing changes to reduce fall risks, and encouraging lifestyle changes to keep seniors safe at home. 

Contact us to learn more about our Safe and Steady Fall Prevention Program or to schedule a complimentary at-home consultation.