Live in Caregiver Elder-Care-Made-Easy | Page 4

Reduce the Risk of fall in Elderly with Simple Measures at Home • Regular Health Check – The health of elder requires a regular check. Reduced vision, internal ear problems, urinary tract infection, and further health conditions indicate the increased risk of fall. • Proper Footwear – Always make sure that the elder member in the house wears proper shoes. Bedroom slipper or flip-flops can cause a fall or stumble, even if used inside the home. For a stable walking, it is necessary to wear sturdy footwear with a proper fit. • Floor – Assess the house for a clear path across each room. Having to walk around the furniture or presence of footstools or coffee tables tend to increase the risk of fall. Additionally, small throw rugs need to be removed. Further small objects on the floor such as shoes, laundry baskets, toys, pet food dishes, and similar other items present a substantial risk of fall, particularly in the bedroom. Tape or staple extension cords and wires to keep them out of the way. • Stairs and Hallways – Stairs and hallways must have sufficient lights. Any loose or torn carpet on the stairs should be removed and it is much better if you attach non-slippery rubber strides to the stairs. Also, check for firm hand-rails on both sides of the staircase.