An octogenarian family member is very good at watching where she walks. Concerned with taking a tumble, she uses handrails and a helping arm as a precautionary measure.
One of every three people 65 years old and older will fall during the next year. The fact that falls among the elderly can limit independent living is a concern to many.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gives some ideas for preventing in-home falls. One of these is to reduce in-home hazards that can cause falls. Some areas that we see with our professional organizing clients that present a trip-and-fall hazard include the following:
- Piles of papers or objects on the floor
- Narrow passageways with clutter on both sides of the aisle
- Nonworking appliances
- Loose or worn rugs
- Electrical cords
- Inadequate lighting
- Clutter
- Crowded garages, basements or attics
Take a good look around your living space as well as that of someone you care about. Are there some changes that can be made to prevent a fall? If you need help or ideas from a professional organizer, consider that option as well.
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