Home is what most people call their safe place, but you would be surprised to know that there is a real danger present. Did you know that 6 out of every 10 falls occur at home for the elderly[1]? 

For an independent, senior citizen, living alone, this poses a serious threat. A fool proof way to ensure immediate medical attention, should such an incident occur, is with Life Alert. Life Alert is available 24/7, and with a simple push of a button they can send help fast-making you feel safe in your home again.

Here are some things you can do to lessen the chance of falling in your home:

• Remove any objects that could cause you to slip or trip. Everyday home goods such as: small furniture, pet bowls, electrical cords and even rugs all pose hazards.

• Make sure your furniture is arranged appropriately so that you have plenty of room to walk freely.

• Remove any items from your stairs or hallways.

• Ensure that any carpets in your home are secured.

• Use non-slip strips or a rubber mat on the floor of your shower or bathtub.

• Make sure your home is properly lit. Use light bulbs that have the highest wattage recommended for the fixture.

• When using staircases, use the hand rails.

Doing all of these things may help to lessen your risk of falling in your home, but it does not guarantee it.    “In the United States, falls are the leading cause of accidental death and the 7th leading cause of death in people age 65 or over. Once a person has had a fall, they are more likely to fall again”2. 

Regardless of how much you may tidy up your home, the threat of falling will still exist. 

At Life Alert, safety is one of their top priorities and the most proactive and comprehensive approach to ensuring your safety at home is by purchasing Life Alert’s medical alert system. 

For senior citizens seeking their independence and freedom, Life Alert can offer security and safety by sending help fast, 24/7, with one push of a button. Life Alert wants you to be able to call home your safe place, with confidence. For a free brochure, call 1-800-513-2934.

Works Cited:

1.        “Fall Proofing Your Home.” Go4Life. <http://go4life.nia.nih.gov/tip-sheets/fall-proofing-your-home>.

2.        Rubenstein, Laurence Z.  MD, MPH. “Falls In Elderly.” Merck Manuals. 2014 March.                                <http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/older_peoples_health_issues/falls/falls_in_the_elderly.html>.

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