As winter descends, senior slips and falls become increasingly imminent. The chilly weather and icy conditions can transform routine tasks into hazardous obstacles. Read on to learn how to take proactive measures in creating a safer home environment for your elderly loved ones in the colder months.
Clearing Driveways and Walkways
Keeping driveways and walkways clear of ice and snow is critical. These slick surfaces are a major cause of senior slips and falls. Promptly shovel these areas after a snowfall to prevent ice from forming. Make the job more efficient by applying deicer or sand, which helps to melt the ice and increase traction for safer walking paths.
Ensure Sufficient Lighting
Adequate lighting is even more crucial as the daylight hours shorten during winter. Illuminated paths significantly reduce the risk of tripping or slipping due to unseen icy patches or obstacles. Assess your loved one's home to ensure essential areas, such as entrance and exit points, staircases, and hallways, are well-lit. Outdoor lighting along sidewalks and driveways also enhances visibility during early mornings and evenings, offering an added layer of safety.
Invest in Non-Slip Footwear for Seniors
Investing in non-slip footwear for seniors is a crucial step in fall prevention. Shoes with good traction can negotiate slippery surfaces better, reducing the chances of falls. From non-skid socks for indoor use to sturdy boots for the outdoors, ensure your senior has the appropriate footwear for different situations. Regularly check these items for wear and tear and replace them regularly, to ensure optimum grip and comfort.
Use Safety Aids
Safety aids, such as handrails, grab bars, and non-slip mats, can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls. Handrails on both sides of staircases, steps, and inclined pathways provide necessary balance support. Grab bars in bathrooms and bedrooms assist with mobility, especially where the floor can become wet and slippery. Non-slip mats placed strategically around the home, particularly in the bathroom and kitchen, can help prevent skidding.
Recognizing Signs of Injury from Slips and Falls
Even with safety protocols in place, accidents can still occur. Caregivers should be aware of the common signs of injury resulting from senior slips and falls. These may include pain or swelling in a particular area, difficulty moving or walking, or a visible wound. If a senior seems disoriented or confused after a fall, it could be a sign of a head injury.
When to Seek Medical Help
Immediately following a fall or slip, assess the senior's condition and seek immediate medical attention if needed. Even if injuries seem minor, it's better to err on the side of caution and involve a healthcare professional. If the senior is experiencing severe pain, cannot move, has hit their head, or if they become unconscious, call 911 without delay.
Get Support From Senior Helpers Lexington
Taking preventative measures against senior slips and falls during winter is a responsible, caring act that can significantly enhance the safety and quality of life of your aging loved ones. Implementing these steps will help you create a secure environment for older adults, providing you and your family peace of mind.
If your senior loved one in Lexington, Georgetown, Nicholasville, or Shelbyville, KY, requires in-home assistance, Senior Helpers Lexington can help. We offer a wide spectrum of senior care services, from daily personal care to drop-in wellness checks and companionship. Contact us today to learn more.