Your Home, Your Haven Part 1
Making It a Safer Place
Making It a Safer Place
Hi there, Welcome back to “Your Canadian Senior Moment”!
For many of us, our home is more than just a house; it’s a lifetime of memories, a place of comfort, and a true haven. As we get older, we all want to stay in our homes for as long as possible. The good news is that with a few simple and often low-cost changes, you can make your home a much safer place to live, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents.
This week, we’re starting a new series called “Your Home, Your Haven,” and we’re beginning with the most important step: making it a safer place for you.
The Most Common Hazards in Your Home
Most falls and accidents in the home are not caused by a single event, but by a combination of small, manageable hazards. The most common places for falls are the bathroom, the stairs, and the kitchen.
The Fixes are Often Simple:
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Lighting: Make sure all your rooms, hallways, and stairwells are well-lit. Consider adding nightlights to hallways and bathrooms.
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Clutter: Clutter is one of the biggest tripping hazards. Keep pathways clear of clutter, and make sure electrical cords are not in a walking path.
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Flooring: Loose rugs, frayed carpets, and uneven flooring are all major risks. Secure all rugs with double-sided tape, or remove them entirely if they are a trip hazard.
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Stairs: Every set of stairs should have a sturdy handrail, even if you don’t think you need it. Consider adding non-slip stair treads for extra security.
Making Your Bathroom Safer
The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the house for falls. The combination of water and hard surfaces makes it a high-risk area.
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Grab Bars: Installing grab bars in the shower, next to the toilet, and on the walls is one of the most effective and affordable ways to prevent falls. Don’t depend on a towel rail, they’re not strong enough to support your weight.
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Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip mats or decals in the bathtub or shower to get better footing.
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Shower Chairs: For those who have trouble standing for long periods, a shower chair can be a lifesaver.
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Raised Toilet Seats: These can be very helpful if you have trouble getting up from a low toilet.
Our Shared Wisdom: What’s Your Top Tip?
What’s one change you’ve made to your home to make it safer? We’d love to hear your top tip for fall prevention!
Keep the Conversation Going!
We’ll continue our series tomorrow in Part 2, where we’ll talk about smart devices and simple technology that can make your home safer and more convenient.
(Please remember: We are not medical or social service professionals. The information above is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute specific medical advice. For personalized guidance on your health issues, please consult your doctor.)
Warmly,
Bill and Marilyn
Founders of Canadian Senior Moment
