Fall prevention for your loved ones
Motor impairment is an inability to contract muscles effectively, which can occur due to neurological disabilities, injuries or aging. Motor impairments can range from mild to severe, but no matter the severity, this can be worrisome for family members due to an increased fall risk. Thankfully, there are as little as six steps you can take to help make your family member’s home a safe environment.
Prevent Tripping Hazards
1. Make sure there are no tripping hazards such as rugs or furniture in the walk ways. If you do have rugs, you can tack down the edges to make sure a foot, cane, walker, etc. can’t get caught underneath.
Stabilize Furniture
2. Make furniture skid proof by placing nonslip grips underneath the feet of furniture. (You can get them here:https://www.amazon.com/DURA-GRIP%C2%AE-Square-Non-Slip-Furniture-Protectors-Set/dp/B0055U5MZI). Now, don’t leave out the bathroom! The bathroom should have nonslip grips underneath shower chairs and nonslip mats for any area your family member is walking on. Handrails should be easily accessible by the toilet, shower, and sink as well.
Provide Proper Lighting
3. Make sure your family member’s house is well lit. Easily accessible light switches will help them better see where they are going and providing for easier navigation throughout their home.
Ensure Easy Access for Items
4. Kitchen items that are used often should be easily accessible and about waist height or higher. Nonslip grip mats should be used in the kitchen as the potential for spills is higher, and the floor could get wet.
Securing the Stairwell
5. Make sure stairs are not slippery and handrails are easily accessible. Stairs can be especially dangerous for those who have slower reflexes, decreased strength and trouble balancing. All precautions mentioned above should be taken into consideration around the stairwell.
Encourage Exercise
6. Encourage your family member to begin an exercise class (there may even be a fall prevention class near you!). Regardless of your family member’s level of motor impairment, they will benefit from strengthening exercises. To encourage and support them, you can bring them to class and even participate with them. If your family member is severely impaired, they may benefit from physical therapy for a more structured and focused exercise plan, as well as a home exercise program. If your family member is already doing either or both of these things, that’s great – keep up the great work!
If you have specific questions about adaptable equipment such as installation of handrails, stair lifts, etc., please speak with a therapist and we would be happy to provide you with resources for these.
Thanks for reading!
Eva Kelley, PTA
Physical Therapist Assistant
