How to prevent falls in your Eugene home
Sliding on a loose rug or stumbling on an electrical cord could seem inconsequential to many, but they can be devastating for seniors. In reality, falls are the leading cause of injury for adults over 65. If you are a senior or a relative caring for an elderly parent, find tips on how to prevent falls in your Eugene home, and see how innovative smart homes can make a difference.
Simple tips to prevent falls
Straightforward precautions will go a long way to keeping you or your loved one safeguarded. With that being said, you also need to take a big-picture approach and evaluate any health conditions that might make falls more likely.
- Check for hazards throughout your home. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other random items off the floors. Secure rugs. Ensure hallways and common areas are free of electrical cords.
- Install safety measures. Simple home improvements like handrails beside stairs and support bars in bathrooms can make a significant difference. If you have steps, consider supplementing your handrails with slip-resistant treads.
- Choose the right shoes. Loose slippers, sandals, heels, and worn-out shoes with smooth soles raise the risk of falling. Select shoes that fit with solid support and non-skid soles.
Talk to your doctor
Aside from the basics like keeping items off your floors, you need to assess your health and get advice from a doctor. Certain health conditions and medications can increase your fall risk. Keep your routine healthcare checkups and vision tests, and ensure you know the possible side effects of any new medicines.
Staying active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Stay on a regular exercise plan approved by your doctor. While exercise is essential, you can also reduce extra activity and make life easier with a smart home.
Add safety and convenience with a smart home
Constantly getting up and down to turn on the lights, secure your door, or change your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home can help! Here’s how:
- Smartphone access: Many modern smart homes can be controlled by mobile apps. You can turn lights on or off, reset your thermostat, secure your door, and even arm your security without leaving your chair.
- Voice commands: You don’t even need a smartphone to control your devices! Connect your home’s security to a smart speaker, then just use your voice to control tools like locks and lights.
- Custom automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can program smart automation actions and allow your equipment to operate independently. Set a comprehensive scene at day’s end and have your lights lower, system arm, thermostat update, and doors lock automatically.
In the worst-case scenario of a fall, a medical pendant that contacts your smart home monitoring agents can be a lifesaver. A simple touch of a button can request assistance immediately during times when each moment counts.
Live smarter and safer in your Eugene home with Vivint
Decrease the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint home security system in Eugene. Smart home tools like voice activation and custom automation are ideal for seniors and others with mobility limitations. Add a medical alert to your smart home and get instant access to monitoring professionals when you need it most. Dial (541) 313-4091 to create your system today.