June is National Safety Month - Week 2
Jun 10th, 2003
The prevention of elderly falls is our focus for the second week of National Safety Month(r). From June 8-14, the National Safety Council (NSC) focuses on providing safety tips and other resources to decrease the incidence of these life-threatening accidents.(Also see: Fall Prevention Tips for All Ages
Download this fact sheet
Facts to Know:
- Falls are the leading injury-related cause of death among older Americans (age 79 and over).
- In 2001, 14,200 Americans died due to falls.
- Falls account for one third of unintentional-injury deaths among the elderly.
The NSC recommends these steps for you, or for a senior friend or relative:
- That harmless-looking pencil or magazine on the floor can easily cause a fall. Remove hazards before they become a danger.
- Clean up spills immediately. Don't over-wax floors.
- Place non-skid throw rugs on linoleum, wood or tile floors.
- Use rug grips or non-slip tape under area rugs.
- Cordless phones eliminate an obvious hazard - the dangling cord.
- Keep living areas well-lit, and walkways free of clutter. Use night-lights, especially in bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens.
- Vary the colors at floor level so you can see where steps and edges are.
- Arrange furniture to maximize open walkways.
- Avoid wearing long robes or loose-fitting slippers.
- Install handrails and/or grab bars in stairways and bathrooms. Check that existing ones are sturdily attached.
- Use a low, sturdy step stool when reaching for an object in a high place.
- Take proper dosages of medications. If you know an elderly person who is on medication, check that they are taking the correct dosage at the proper time.
- Older adults don't always realize that their balance and coordination fail over time. Encourage them to have regular physical exams.
- Stay active with physical activities that improve gait, balance and muscle mass.
- Help your senior friends and family members with a home safety check. Bring this fact sheet to their home to help them identify potential problems.
National Safety Month(r) is a registered trademark of the National Safety