How to prevent falls in your Charleston home

Stumbling on an electrical cord or slipping on an unsecured rug could seem inconsequential to many, but these mishaps can be devastating for seniors. In reality, falls are the leading cause of injury for residents over 65. If you are a senior or a family member caring for a parent or grandparent, learn how to prevent falls in your Charleston home, and see how innovative smart home features can help.
Discover straightforward tips for preventing falls
Basic precautions will help a great deal in keeping you or a loved one protected. Even so, you also have to take a big-picture approach and think about any health conditions that may make falls more of a concern.
- Inspect your home for hazards. Keep boxes, papers, clothing, and other items off your floor. Tape down rugs. Ensure hallways and common areas are free of power cords.
- Install safety features. Basic home improvements like support bars in bathrooms and handrails beside stairs can make a big difference. If you use steps, consider supplementing your railings with slip-resistant treads.
- Opt for sensible shoes. Loose slippers, flip-flops, heels, and old shoes with smooth soles increase the risk of falls. Find options that fit well with good support and non-skid soles.
Speak with your doctor
Aside from the simple precautions like keeping objects off your floors, you need to think about your health and seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Certain health conditions and medicines can make you more susceptible to falls. Keep your normal healthcare checkups and vision exams, and make sure you understand the potential side effects of any new medicines.
Remaining active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Stay on a daily exercise plan approved by your medical provider. While exercise is crucial, you can also eliminate unnecessary activity and make life more convenient with a smart home.
Enhance safety and convenience with a smart home
Constantly getting up and down to adjust lights, secure your door, or reset your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home will help! Here’s what you can do:
- Mobile access: Top smart homes are controlled by mobile apps. You can adjust thermostat and lighting levels, secure your doors, and even arm your security system without getting up.
- Voice control: You don’t even need your phone to control your smart home! Link your home’s security to a voice assistant, then just use your voice to control equipment like lights and locks.
- Home automation. Want to make life even easier? You can program home automation actions and allow your equipment to operate automatically. Set a scene when you go to bed and have your doors secure, lights dim, system arm, and thermostat adjust simultaneously.
In the rare event that you fall, a medical device that links to your smart home monitoring team can be a lifesaver. A simple press of a button can get you support right away during times when each moment matters.
Live safer and smarter in your Charleston home with Vivint
Lower the risk of falling and increase your safety with a Vivint alarm system in Charleston. Smart home capabilities like voice commands and home automation are a great fit for seniors and others with mobility limitations. Add a medical alert to your smart home and get immediate access to monitoring agents during emergencies. Dial (304) 902-6244 to design your system today.