The increased wear and tear of bones and muscles put the elderly at greater risk of falls and accidents. Therefore, the home must be accident safe for the elderly. Taking care of an elderly person is similar to taking care of a child. Slips and falls can be dangerous for the elderly as they may cause thigh fractures, injury, and head or brain trauma. Therefore it becomes necessary that some precautionary measures are taken at home. According to Punita Khattar, a provider of elderly care services in India, basic improvements can be made to prevent falls and slips at home.
Floor
There should be no loose carpet on the floor. Torn carpet should be removed, and loose carpet edges should be tied. Keep the space as open as possible. . Make sure that the hall and stairs are well lit and clean. In case of stairs in the house, turn on the electric bulb. . Wear non-slip footwear.
Bathroom
The lamp and its switch should be close to the bed. The phone should be kept near the bed. The bed should not be too high. There should be night lighting so that the elderly can easily see even in the night.
Kitchen
Necessary items should be kept in the lower cupboard. Never use a chair as a step tool. The elderly should wear loose-fitting clothes while going out of the house. . They should carry a walking stick on doctor's advice. . It is advisable that the elderly are accompanied by the young.