Reducing the Risk of Injury in the Elderly Patient at Home

Being a visiting nurse for the last 25 years has given me the opportunity to work with many seniors in the comfort of their own homes. One of the things I love about home care is that people can't wait to get back home when they have been in a hospital or skilled nursing facility. Visiting nurses make that happen. Now that the baby boomer generation has started to retire, the next ten years will see a tremendous growth in the number of seniors living on their own in the community. And while retirement has its benefits, unfortunately aging also comes with added risks. For instance, did you know that the number one risk for a senior living on their own is a fall? Many of which can have devastating effects. Stepping on a wet bathroom floor, walking on uneven ground in the yard, slipping on a rug that is not skid proof all may seem minor, but for an elderly person it may mean the permanent loss of their independence.

An aging population faces progressively deteriorating eyesight, less speed and agility and perhaps an unsteady gait. All of which can contribute to a higher risk of a serious injury due to a fall. As we age bone density tends to lower thus increasing the risk of fracturing a bone when a fall does occur.

The following are some safety tips applicable to all homes but especially for seniors, particularly those living alone:

• House slippers with nonskid soles are a must. People with diabetes should not walk barefoot as they frequently have diminished sensation in their lower extremities making it easier to unknowingly acquire an injury to the bottom of their feet.


• Furniture needs to be arranged so that lamps with electrical cords reach an outlet with minimum wiring exposed. If you must use extension cords make sure it runs against the wall where it cannot be tripped over. The same for any telephone wires and oxygen tubing.


• Stepstools with a hand rail is a must for reaching higher shelves. Be sure it is fully opened before climbing.


• Stairways need to be well lit. Use a higher wattage bulb in those areas. Hand rails on both sides is recommended for an elderly person going between two floors.


• Make sure throw rugs have a nonskid backing and all loose carpeting is secured. Check the backing periodically as it does wear down over time.


• The danger of slipping on a wet or soapy surface is one reason the bathroom is the most hazardous room in the house. Grab bars and nonskid tub mats or abrasive stripping helps reduce fall risks. Shower benches are great for getting in and out of the tub.


• Be sure the bedroom has lighting that can be easily accessed when getting up in the middle of the night. Night lights are great for reducing fall risks at night.


• Phones that can be carried on your person or a call alert device is imperative for an elderly person living alone.

Remember, there is no place like home... just be sure those ruby red slippers have good rubber soles!