Can you spot which space reduces the risk of a fall?

Each year, about 1 million older adults are hospitalized because of falls.

Falls can result in serious injuries, loss of independence, and, in some cases, even death.

But many falls can be prevented by making simple changes to the spaces where we live and spend time.

Take a look at the images and see if you can identify which space is safer and better reduces the risk of falls.

In Image B, the floor is clear of clutter, while Image A has several objects scattered across the walking path, including a wire.

For older adults, everyday items like cords, shoes, or other objects left on the floor can become tripping hazards and increase the risk of a fall.

But did you notice something in Image B that could still increase the risk of a fall? Take another look at the next image and you might spot a potential hazard hiding in plain sight.

Did you spot it? In Image A, there’s a large throw rug on the floor, while Image B has a clear, unobstructed surface. While throw rugs may seem harmless, they can shift, bunch up, or create an uneven surface, making them a potential tripping hazard.

When entering the bedroom at night, it’s important that an older adult can easily access a light switch without having to walk through a dark room.

Good lighting can help improve visibility and make it easier to spot potential hazards.

In this example, Image A is the safer choice because the light switch is located within easy reach of the doorway, allowing the person to turn on the light as soon as they enter the room.

It’s also a good idea to keep a flashlight, lamp, or phone within easy reach of the bed. This provides an additional source of light if an older adult needs to get up during the night, helping them avoid walking through a dark room where they may not be able to see potential hazards.

In this example, Image A is the safer space because the person has an accessible light source within reach.

Aside from the bedroom and other frequently visited rooms, hallways should also be well lit. Good lighting can help older adults see where they’re going, identify potential hazards, and move around more safely.

Be sure to replace burned-out or dim lightbulbs as needed to keep these areas adequately illuminated.

The bathroom can be a high-risk area for falls, especially when the floor or other surfaces become wet and slippery.

In Image A, grab bars are installed in the shower area and next to the toilet, providing additional support when sitting down, standing up, or moving in and out of the shower.

There are also other simple changes that can make a bathroom safer.

Nonslip mats or adhesive strips can provide additional traction on wet surfaces and help reduce the risk of slipping.

It’s also helpful to keep the showerhead within easy reach. Lowering the showerhead can allow an older adult to adjust or use it without having to stretch, bend, or reach overhead, which could affect their balance.

So how did you do? Were you able to spot the fall hazards? There are many other ways to keep reduce the risk of falls at home. You can learn more by visiting our falls prevention page here.

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This article was made by  Elder Love USA.

As the only nonprofit agency in California offering home care services, we are dedicated to providing compassionate affordable in-home care.  

All caregivers undergo thorough background checks and training with certification.  

Our rates are lower than other providers thanks to partnerships, donations, grants, and revenue from our cleaning program.  

Our caregivers can assist with personal care, shopping, cooking, transportation, housekeeping, and case management.  

We proudly serve Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ. 

If you’d like to learn more about how our services can benefit you or your loved one, contact us today.

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