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"Ageing well is about quality of life. Research holds the
key to unlocking the possibilities of ageing well" |
Indoor risk factors:
We all need to be aware of potential environmental risks within our own
home to avoid falls:
- Flooring
- should be dry and not heavily waxed. Avoid slipperiness and
high glare. Use rubber matting, rugs with non-skid backing, and
tack down loose carpet
- Lighting
- avoid dim lighting, and reduce glare from sunlight in rooms.
Movement sensitive lights should be installed near stairs and
the bathroom
- Stairs -
need to be well lit with a light switch at the top and bottom
of the staircase. Worn stair treads should be replaced and non-slip
adhesive strips placed on the edge of all steps
- Chairs -
avoid chairs with wheels. Loose legs and arms should be fixed.
Ideally chair height should allow for your feet to reach the floor
and your legs to be bent at a 90 degree angle
- Bathroom
- use rubber mats on the floor, in the shower and in the bath.
Avoid door locks. If unable to stand for long periods, place a
seat in the shower or bath. Medicine cabinets should be well lit
with drugs clearly marked
- Bedroom -
lock bed wheels. Avoid loose rugs. Ideal bed height is 45cm from
the mattress to the floor
- Kitchen -
place a rubber mat near the sink, and wear rubber soled shoes.
Frequently used objects should be stored at waist height. Avoid
tripod or pedestal tables
- Obstacles
- beware of moving the furniture, children's toys, shoes left
on the floor, grandchildren or pets playing. Ensure the pathway
to the toilet is unobstructed.
Outdoor risk factors:
We all need to be aware of potential hazards outdoors to minimise the
risk of falling:
- avoid or
take care with slippery wet surfaces, for example after watering
the garden
- wear appropriate
low heeled, well fitting shoes with good tread to avoid tripping
or slipping
- be aware
of broken paving stones, curbs and changing levels
- keep pathways
swept clear of obstacles
- wear sunglasses
and a hat to reduce sun glare
- be aware
of toys, garden tools, pets, even grandchildren! They can all
be potential obstacles
- ensure outside
stairs and pathways are well lit
- replace worn
tread on stairs and attach non-slip adhesive to each step
- consider
installing rails beside stairs for balance and support
- in some cases,
the use of a walking aid may increase confidence and support
To protect yourself and others, remove potential
hazards, or report any public hazards to the apropriate authority. If you
have concerns about falls and balance, please consult your family doctor.
Use the side menu for more tips
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