Eliminate Trip Hazards In Your Home – September Is Falls Prevention Month

One of the worst pieces of news we can hear is when an elderly person takes a fall in their own home, or anywhere else for that matter. Be aware of trip hazards in your own home.  There are some very scary statistics that one in three people, over the age of 65, will take a fall at least one time a year. That could be your mother, father, grandparent or spouse.

Doctors encourage us to do what is called a risk evaluation to help prevent these dreaded tumbles. The problem is getting people to comply. If you know of and elderly person and think they would be a good candidate for an in-home risk evaluation, do your best to encourage them to take one.

A fall-risk evaluation simply consists evaluating the gait and walk of the person. Also home environment, health conditions and medications. Doctors also want us to be aware of any durable medical equipment that elderly folks may use. Ensure that the cane or walker they are using is a good fit for them.

Let's be aware and awake as we are our brother's keeper. If we see a potential hazard in and around an elderly friend or family member, don't be shy in mentioning it to them or a family member.