How to Fall-proof Your Retirement Home

Preventing life threatening and immobilizing falls is of utmost importance in the senior years. Therefore, fall-proofing your retirement home should be something all mature adults consider when preparing their place for those golden years. Here are a few tips for creating a safe, fall-proof living environment.

Bathroom Breaks

The place that poses the greatest threat to seniors when it comes to falling is the bathroom. Showers in particular present the greatest danger for the elderly, accounting for nearly twice as many serious falls as any other room in the house. To fall-proof the bathroom, consider installing grab bars in the shower and near the toilet seat, placing a shower chair in the tub, and using handheld showerheads.

Toilet seats themselves can also become a challenge for some seniors, as it becomes increasingly difficult to stoop and bend without losing their balance. To remedy this situation, replace the traditional toilet with one that stands higher, much like you find in hospitals and assisted living homes. You can also add a raised toilet seat on top of the traditional one.

Bathroom floors are another common problem area. Unless carpeted, which most are not, bathroom tiles easily become wet and slippery, creating an extremely hazardous area. Installing non-skid floor mats will often do the trick here.

Stairways and Steps

Stairways and or steps in general, also rank high on the list of danger zones for seniors when it comes to taking a fall. If you are building or buying a new retirement home, try avoiding split-levels and steps if at all possible. Single story homes are the safest floor plans for seniors, and entryways leading into the home should be built as closely to the ground as possible. Another option is adding ramps, and using handrails to grab onto should a fall occur.

General Living Spaces

For living rooms and dining rooms in particular, clutter is often most responsible for causing seniors to fall. Open floor plans that are modestly furnished create necessary ease of movement and mobility when it comes to getting around the house.

Flooring is another important source for falls. Carpeted rooms are best, but if wood floors are your desire, be sure to place non-slip throw rugs around for added safety. Avoid polishing and waxing which creates a slippery walking environment that is an open invitation for disaster.

Since having quick access to telephones in case of emergencies is critical, be sure to place phones all around the house in easy-to-reach areas that require. Cell phones are a great mobile device, but should not be entirely relied upon for various reasons. Personal emergency response systems also up the ante when it comes creating a safe environment.

Lighting can be another hindrance to safety for seniors. Make sure all areas of the home are well lit with easy access to switches. Remote controls are a great tool for turning lights on and off. This is especially important in the bedroom where nighttime bathroom trips may increase.

With some practical steps and preventative measures, your retirement home can offer years of safety and satisfaction, keeping you on your feet for years to come!

Tribute Homes specializes in building retirement communities for active adults 55+ Charlotte, NC and Charleston, SC. For more information, visit us at www.tributehomesusa.com or contact us at 800.381.2984.