Preventing Slip and Fall Injuries for Seniors

Slip and fall accidents are common, but they are even more common when it comes to the senior population. So, to avoid these injuries from happening, there are a few things we can do to help the elderly prevent injuries from slip and fall accidents.

Slip and falls may not seem like they can cause a lot of damage, but this is far from true. Each year, millions of American seniors over the age of 65 suffer from injuries as the result of this kind of accident. For this reason, we need to take the necessary steps to ensure a safe environment.

More Facts to Know

Did you know that one out of every five falls can result in fractured bones or even head injuries? One of the most common injuries after a fall is a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Additionally, more than 800,000 people are hospitalized each year due to these head injuries as well as hip fractures as a result of slip and fall incidents.

Preventing Slip and Falls

There are several ways seniors can prevent falls as they age, and we will go through a few of these below.

Regular Exercise

When seniors participate in weight-bearing exercises, they can increase their leg strength while also effectively improving their balance. Walking is another good form of exercise for seniors as well.

The Right Footwear

It is important to always have the right footwear to help prevent slip and fall injuries. Instead of slippers or a pair of flats, consider wearing a pair of sneakers instead. They provide more stability and traction because they have more tread. Socks should also be avoided in the home as well.

Prep the Home

Always be prepared. It never hurts to have railings installed in stairways and other areas where they may prove to be helpful around the home. For example, having these bars inside and outside of the bathtub and shower area can also go a long way in preventing accidental falls.

All the lighting around the home should also be maintained to ensure a well-lit environment. If there is any furniture or other obstacles blocking the paths throughout the home, these should be eliminated as well to keep it as clear and clutter-free as possible.

Steps for Businesses

Now that we have learned a few ways to help prevent falls at home, what can businesses do to accomplish the same?

• Remove any obstacles out of the pathways including boxes, carts, and anything else that may potentially pose a tripping hazard

• Make sure public spaces are well-illuminated, and all lighting is regularly checked and maintained around the property, including the parking lot

• If the business is darker than other establishments (for example, bars and restaurants), then make sure you have the appropriate signage in place, and all walking paths are illuminated

• Install proper signage when there are any stairs or other elevated areas on the property

• Run safety checks regularly to ensure conditions around the property are favorable and safe

• If there are any spills, make sure they are dealt with immediately

• Install the appropriate rails for the elderly and handicapped

• Make sure there are slip-proof rugs and other slip-proof options in place at all entrances and exit points

If you follow these simple tips both at home and at your place of business, you can significantly lower the potential for a slip and fall from occurring.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a slip and fall, however, because of negligence, then you may be entitled to compensation for those injuries. Consult with a reputable personal injury attorney about your case today.