About once every 11 seconds, a senior visits an emergency room to receive treatment for a fall injury. Often, these injuries will lead aging individuals to experience lasting mobility issues. In more severe cases, death can occur. But while these incidents may be common, there are many ways that these older Americans can live independently and stay safe. If you’re concerned about the risk of falling, here are five strategies you can adopt to create a safer senior living environment.

Senior Living Strategies for Fall Prevention

1. Remove Trip Hazards

A senior’s home should be free of any clutter that may cause them to trip. Common risks include boxes on the floor, unsecured rugs, electric cords, and unnecessary furniture. In addition to removing these hazards, employ solutions to make slick surfaces more stable—such as by putting anti-slip mats in the bathroom and on kitchen floors.  

2. Reorganize Shelves

When people try to grab out-of-reach items, they are more likely to tumble over and hit the floor. To reduce the need to reach, place commonly used objects in easy-to-access areas of the house—such as on lower shelves or counters.

3. Install Support Rails

Support rails can make it easier for seniors to move around the house, as well as save themselves from an accidental fall. Typically, these rails should be installed along stairways, in hallways, in showers, and near toilets.

4. Improve Lighting

A living space should be fully illuminated with indirect, but bright light. By improving lighting, seniors will be more likely to see hazards that could cause them to slip and fall—such as spills or crumpled rugs.  

5. Consider Monitoring Devices

If an older individual does fall, their chances of recovery will depend on how soon they get help. Unfortunately, many individuals who have fallen are unable to reach a phone and call for help. Monitoring devices—such as bracelets and pendants—allow seniors to request emergency assistance with just a press of a button.

Helping your loved ones enjoy independent senior living in a safe environment doesn’t have to be complicated. Thanks to Longhorn Village in Austin, TX, aging individuals can enjoy life at their leisure in a retirement community that’s designed for safety. With caring and qualified professionals on the premises at all times, residents can stay confident that they’ll have medical support if and when they need it. And thanks to the community’s Life Care program, those living independently can enjoy a seamless transition into the center’s assisting living at a fixed rate. If you’re looking for a better alternative to the traditional nursing home, visit Longhorn Village online. To arrange a tour or inquire about available units, call (512) 266-5600.