Fall preventative measure #1: Keep a clear and dry walking surface

Slips and falls can happen when there is not enough grip between the walking surface and your footwear. To make sure your loved ones can stand firmly, avoid waxing or coating the floor, and clean up or mark wet areas immediately. 

Apart from making sure there are no obstacles and clutter on the ground, here is a housekeeping checklist you can refer to:

   ✅ Are the edges of carpets and rugs flat and not tilted up ?

   ✅ Are loose cables tied up and long cables placed at a fixed position, ideally stuck to the wall?  

Here are some things you should also look out for in your bathroom: 

   ✅ Is there a non-slip mat in the shower area?

   ✅ Have you considered installing assistive devices? eg: shower chairs, grab bars, bath boards, commode chair 

   ✅ Is the toilet and wash basin at a suitable height?

   ✅ Are showering equipments placed at a reachable place? 

Finally, choosing suitable, fall-prevention furnitures, while paying attention to your home layout, are equally important. Chairs should be stable, sturdy and high-back chairs are recommended to provide stronger support for the elderly’s back. Avoid changing the furniture arrangement too often and organise them in a way that creates a wide and unobstructed space. 

Elevated seating or chairs with higher seat height, can make it easier for your loved ones to transition from a seated position to standing up. This is elderly-friendly for those with stiff muscles as it requires less bending movement of the individual. Similarly, chairs with armrests also provide the elderly with support when standing up or sitting down.

Installing assistive devices, such as raised toilet seats or grab bars, are also a good way to maintain your loved one’s sense of independence and safety. An occupational therapist can assess your living situation and provide recommendations on the best devices to make daily activities easier.