As you get older, everyday activities can present new risks. Something as simple as walking across the kitchen floor or stepping out of the shower can cause you to trip or lose your balance. In fact, slip and fall accidents are among the leading causes of injury for seniors, and the effects can be serious – broken bones, head injuries, and a loss of independence.
There is a silver lining, however. And that’s the fact that many of these accidents are preventable. By taking proactive steps and using a safety checklist as your guide, you can make your home and daily routines safer.
Keeping this in mind, here’s a practical, easy-to-follow slip and fall safety checklist designed with you in mind.
1. Keep Walkways Clear
Clutter is one of the biggest hazards in any home. Shoes by the door, loose electrical cords, or even pet toys scattered across the floor all pose trip hazards.
Go through each room in your home and check for items that block your path. Do whatever you need to make the space safer, including clearing hallways, arranging furniture for wide walking spaces, and keeping floors free of unnecessary objects. If you use throw rugs, make sure they have non-slip backing or secure them with double-sided tape.
2. Improve Lighting
Poor lighting makes it hard to see where you’re going, especially at night. Falls often happen when you’re moving from a well-lit area to a dim one and don’t notice a change in floor level or an object in your path. For increased visibility, install bright bulbs in hallways, stairwells, bathrooms, and kitchens.
3. Wear Proper Footwear
What you wear on your feet matters more than you may think. Choose shoes that fit well and have non-skid soles.
If you prefer slippers at home, look for pairs with rubberized bottoms. But whatever you do, avoid walking around in just your socks. A small change in footwear can drastically lower your risk of slipping on smooth surfaces.
4. Make Bathrooms Safer
Bathrooms are one of the most common places for slip and fall accidents. Water on tile floors, slick bathtubs, and tight spaces create a perfect storm for injuries.
Add grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or tub, and use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower. You might also consider a shower chair if you have trouble standing for long periods.
5. Pay Attention in Public Places
It’s not just your home you need to worry about. Public places like restaurants, sidewalks, and supermarkets can pose risks too. A common example is a grocery store slip and fall, where spilled liquids or recently mopped floors can sneak up on you without any warning.
When you’re out, pay attention to your surroundings. Always walk at a steady pace and use handrails when available. If you notice a spill or hazard, report it to store staff immediately so they can take care of it.
6. Install Handrails and Support Features
Stairs and steps can be especially dangerous without the right support. Check that both sides of your staircases have sturdy handrails. If your home has a front or back porch, make sure handrails are installed there, too.
Inside, think about adding support poles or rails in areas where you often need to steady yourself, like near your favorite chair or by the bed. These small additions can give you confidence and reduce your risk of falling.
7. Keep Essentials Within Reach
Falls often happen when you stretch, climb, or bend in awkward ways to reach something. Avoid using step stools or chairs to grab items stored on high shelves. Instead, reorganize your home so that the items you use most often are within easy reach.
8. Manage Medications and Health Conditions
Some medications cause dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in blood pressure that make you more prone to falls. Talk to your doctor about side effects and whether your prescriptions might impact your balance.
9. Stay Active to Improve Balance
The stronger and more flexible you are, the less likely you are to suffer a fall. Exercises like walking, tai chi, or gentle yoga can improve your balance and coordination. Even light strength training with resistance bands can make a big difference in how steady you feel on your feet.
While exercise is great, be sure to talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise program. They can help you choose activities that are safe and enjoyable.
10. Have a Plan in Case of a Fall
Even with every precaution, accidents can still happen. The key is being prepared. Keep a phone nearby at all times. (Keeping your cell phone on your hip isa great idea.) Medical alert systems are also a great option, giving you immediate access to help with the push of a button.
For even more safety, talk with family members or neighbors about your plan in case of a fall. Knowing you have support in place can give you peace of mind and confidence to move about more freely. It can also provide peace of mind that someone will help if something happens.
Do You Have a Plan?
Remember that prevention is always easier than recovery. A single fall can change your life in a negative way, but all it takes is a few smart adjustments to keep you healthy, safe, and mobile.
Use this checklist as your guide and revisit it regularly!
