Fall is a beautiful season but brings unique challenges—especially for seniors and those with health conditions. With increased allergens and potential fall hazards, it’s essential to make your home safe. Acara has put together practical tips to help you enhance home safety this fall, ensuring a worry-free season for everyone. Follow up with a personalized assessment for at-home health care today.
Ensure Only Leaves Fall This Season
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of every 10 falls experienced by older adults causes injury that interferes with daily life. Fear of falling again can cause seniors to avoid certain activities, which, ironically, increases the risk of another fall.
Following an accident, Acara’s home health experts can provide services like at-home physical therapy to strengthen muscles, preserve balance, and make daily activities less scary. We can also suggest some effective strategies to prevent falls from happening.
1. Keep Pathways Clear
The CDC lists uneven steps and throw rugs as common fall risks. Ensure that hallways and staircases are free of rugs, cords, and other obstacles that could cause trips and falls.
2. Install Grab Bars and Handrails
Adding grab bars in bathrooms and handrails along staircases provides extra support, especially in high-risk areas like showers and near toilets, as well as outside, where walkway conditions can change with the weather.
3. Decorate Mindfully
Fall decorations can bring cheer to a space, but our home health experts recommend being strategic. Make sure that none of your decor poses a risk. Avoid things that could be easily knocked over, are a tripping hazard, or block sightlines.
Inhale Pumpkin Spice, Not Allergens
Fall allergens can cause discomfort and health issues, particularly for those with allergies or respiratory conditions. Follow these tips to keep your home allergen-free.
1. Clean Regularly
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove dust and allergens from carpets, upholstery, and curtains. Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets weekly in hot water to kill mites and remove allergens.
2. Change Air Filters
Replace HVAC filters every 1-2 months to ensure clean air circulation. Consider using air purifiers to further reduce airborne allergens.
3. Keep Windows Closed
While crisp autumn air is nice, open windows can invite pollen and other outdoor allergens inside. Keep windows closed, especially on high pollen days.
Safely Enjoy the Sweater Weather
Spending time outdoors when the weather is cooler offers a myriad of benefits, from soaking up Vitamin D to enjoying the beauty of nature. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety to fully reap these benefits.
1. Clear Leaves and Debris
Regularly rake leaves and clear debris from walkways, driveways, and stairs. Wet leaves can be slippery and pose a fall risk.
2. Maintain Lighting
Ensure your outdoor lighting is functional and adequate. Use solar lights or motion-sensor lights to illuminate walkways, entrances, and dark corners of your yard.
3. Secure Outdoor Furniture
Strong winds can cause outdoor furniture to move and become hazardous. Secure or store furniture during stormy weather to prevent accidents.
For More Help, Leaf It to Us
By following these practical tips, you can create a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment for your loved ones this fall. Taking proactive steps now will help prevent accidents and ensure that everyone enjoys the season to the fullest.
Need some personalized home safety advice and professional help at home? Connect with Acara’s home health care experts for support tailored to your needs.
