How to prevent falls in your Salem home
Slipping on an unsecured rug or catching your foot on an electrical cord might seem minor to many, but these accidents can be catastrophic for seniors. In reality, falls are the No. 1 cause of injury for residents over 65. If you’re a senior or a relative looking after an elderly parent, learn how to prevent falls in your Salem home, and see how innovative smart home features can boost safety.
Check out straightforward tips for preventing falls
Straightforward precautions will go a long way to keeping you or a family member protected. However, you also need to take a big-picture approach and consider any health conditions that might increase your fall risk.
- Inspect your home for hazards. Keep boxes, papers, clothing, and other assorted objects off your floor. Anchor rugs. Ensure hallways and common areas are free of power cords.
- Install safety equipment. Simple home improvements like support bars in showers and handrails next to stairs can make a big difference. If you have steps, consider supplementing your railings with slip-preventing treads.
- Choose the right shoes. Flimsy slippers, heels, flip-flops, and worn-down shoes with slippery soles increase the chance of falls. Select shoes that fit well with solid support and non-skid soles.
Get advice from a healthcare professional
Aside from the simple precautions like keeping your floors clear, you need to assess your health and consult with a healthcare professional. Several health complications and medicines can increase your fall risk. Keep your normal checkups and vision exams, and make certain you understand the potential side effects of any new prescriptions.
Remaining active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Keep to a daily exercise routine approved by your doctor. While exercise is crucial, you can also reduce unnecessary activity and make your life more convenient with a smart home.
Add safety and convenience with a smart home
Getting up and down constantly to turn on the lights, secure your door, or change your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home will help! Here’s how:
- Smartphone access: Leading smart homes can be controlled by smartphone apps. You can turn lights off or on, adjust your thermostat, lock your door, and even arm your security without leaving your chair.
- Voice control: You don’t even need your phone to control your smart home! Sync your system to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just use your voice to control tools like locks and thermostats.
- Home automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can configure custom automation actions and allow your equipment to activate automatically. Set a full scene when you go to bed and have your lights lower, system arm, thermostat adjust, and doors lock automatically.
In the rare event that you fall, a medical device that contacts your smart home monitoring agents can be invaluable. A simple touch of a button can summon assistance immediately at times when every second matters.
Stay safe in your Salem home with Vivint
Lower the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint home security system in Salem. Smart home tools like custom automation and voice commands are perfect for seniors and others with mobility issues. Add a medical pendant to your smart home and get immediate access to monitoring professionals whenever you need it. Call (503) 994-1230 to build your system today.