Eliminate Tripping Hazards in Your Home

If you or an older adult in your life has fallen, you’re not alone. More than one in four people aged 65 years or older fall each year. The risk of falling — and fall-related problems — rises with age. However, many falls can be prevented.

Bayhealth Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Felicia Cruz, MSN, APRN, AGCNS-BC, RN-BC, shares 10 practical tips to help you create a safer environment.

1. Clear Walkways. Ensure all hallways, stairs and pathways are free from clutter. Shoes, bags and other items left on the floor can easily cause trips and falls. Establish a designated area for storing these items to keep walkways clear.
   
   
2. Secure Loose Rugs and Carpets. Loose rugs and carpets can easily slip underfoot. Use non-slip pads or double-sided tape to secure them firmly to the floor. Alternatively, consider removing smaller rugs that are more likely to shift.
   
   
3. Tidy Up Children’s Toys. Grandchildren’s toys scattered around can be a major tripping hazard. Utilize storage bins or shelves to keep toys organized and off the floor.
   
   
4. Improve Lighting. Poor lighting can obscure tripping hazards. Ensure all areas of your home, especially staircases and hallways, are well lit. Consider using nightlights in frequently used paths to enhance visibility at night.
   
   
5. Manage Cords and Wires. Electrical cords and wires stretched across walkways can easily cause trips. Use cord organizers or clips to keep them neatly tucked away along walls. For frequently used devices, opt for cordless versions when possible.
   
   
6. Fix Loose or Uneven Steps and Handrails. Loose or uneven steps and handrails pose a risk to fall. Ensure handrails are on both sides of the stairs. and keep objects off the stairs. Never use a chair as a step stool. Use a step stool with a bar to hold onto.
   
   
7. Utilize Appropriate Footwear and Assistive Devices. Maximize mobility by using appropriate footwear such as rubber sole shoes. If recommended, use an assistive device when walking (walker or cane). Fix or remove unstable furniture and avoid leaning on furniture with wheels.
   
   
8. Use Grab Bars. Have grab bars next to and inside the tub and toilet.
   
   
9. Locate Pets Before Walking. Don’t step over pets on the floor. Keep pet toys and supplies out of walkways. Consider placing a collar with a bell on your pet so that you can hear when it is near. Train your pets not to jump up on you while standing or pull while walking it.
   
   
10. Talk to Your Doctor and Pharmacist. Complete a fall risk assessment to determine your risk for falling. Review your medications to see if any might make you feel dizzy or sleepy (prescription and over-the counter medicines). Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of Vitamin D supplements and engaging in exercise to improve strength and balance. Have your eyes and hearing checked and utilize eyeglasses and hearing aids if recommended.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of trips and falls in your home, and ensure a safer environment for everyone.

Visit Bayhealth.org/Classes to sign up for Bayhealth’s award-winning Matter of Balance class to learn more ways to keep yourself upright.