Fall 2018

14 HCAOA The Voice PUBLIC POLICY Home Safety While the layout and décor of a home may play an important role in allowing seniors to maintain their independence, many everyday household items can easily become falling hazards. Keep Pathways Clear and Well Lit Stairways and walkways should always be clear of objects that can be tripped over. Storage bins and similar items can be utilized for belongings that are typically on the floor, such as shoes or newspa- pers. Bright lighting should be installed to ensure these pathways are clearly visible at night. It is suggested that seniors place light switches at both ends of stairways or hallways, preferably light switches that glow in the dark and are easier to see. Night lights can also help illuminate pathways within bedrooms and bathrooms. Be Aware of Uneven Surfaces In an effort to help clients avoid a fall, take note of changes in flooring level within their homes, such as in doorways or in between carpeting and tile. If a rug can be moved easily by your foot, it is a slipping hazard. Suggest that your client remove these types of rugs from the home, or use a rug gripper underneath to secure rugs to the floor. Keep Frequently Used Items Within Reach Loss of balance can be caused by reaching high or bending low to retrieve an item. Try to keep frequently used items, such as cooking supplies in the kitchen, easily reachable for your client. Add Supports Where Needed Installing grab bars and handrails can be a great resource in fall prevention, especially in places like bathrooms or stairways. Since bathrooms are often wet, placing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower, as well as positioning nonslip strips in the bathtub is advised. Handrails are also important along stairways. If your client already has grab bars and/or handrails installed in their home, try to make sure they are installed properly, are not loose, and that your client is using them whenever necessary. FALL PREVENTION WEEK Most older adults prefer home care services because they wish to hold onto something that many people, regardless of age, cher- ish throughout their lives — independence. Home care allows seniors to remain in their homes and continue to practice their daily routines in a familiar environment. However, as the leading cause of injury deaths, unintentional injuries, and hospital admissions for trauma, falls not only present a threat to a senior’s independence, but also to one’s life. Since 2008, the first week of Fall every year is recognized as Fall Prevention Awareness Week. September 22–28 of this year will be dedicated to raising awareness among older adults, their families, their caregivers, and the general public about the seriousness of falls and ways to reduce fall risk.