How to prevent falls in your Oklahoma City home
Slipping on an unsecured rug or catching your foot on an electrical cord could seem minor to many, but these accidents can be devastating for seniors. In fact, falls are the No. 1 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 Oklahoma City home, and see how innovative smart homes can boost safety.
Check out simple tips for preventing falls
Basic precautions will help a great deal in keeping you or your loved one safeguarded. Even so, you also have to take a big-picture approach and evaluate any medical-related issues that could elevate the chance of falls.
- Look for hazards throughout your home. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other assorted items off the floor. Secure rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of power cords.
- Install safety features. Simple home improvements like safety bars in showers and handrails beside stairs can make a significant difference. If you have steps, consider supplementing your handrails with slip-preventing treads.
- Choose sensible shoes. Loose slippers, heels, flip-flops, and worn-down shoes with no tread left elevate the risk of falls. Find options that fit with proper support and non-slip soles.
Seek advice from healthcare professionals
Beyond the basics like keeping your floors clear, you need to consider your health and consult with a healthcare professional. Some health complications and medicines can heighten your fall risk. Keep your regular medical appointments and vision exams, and make sure you understand the possible side effects of any new prescriptions.
Remaining active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Stay on a daily exercise routine approved by your healthcare provider. While exercise is essential, you can also reduce unnecessary activity and make your life simpler with a smart home.
Add convenience and safety with a smart home
Constantly getting up and down to switch lights on or off, secure your door, or adjust your thermostat is unnecessary and avoidable. A smart home can help! Here’s how:
- Smartphone access: Many modern smart homes can be operated by mobile apps. You can turn lights on or off, adjust your thermostat, lock your door, and even arm your security without leaving your chair.
- Voice commands: You don’t even have to use your phone! Sync your home’s security to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just verbalize a command to control equipment like lights and locks.
- Custom automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can program home automation actions and let your components activate automatically. Set a comprehensive scene when you go to bed and have your lights dim, security arm, thermostat adjust, and doors lock automatically.
If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical pendant that links to your smart home monitoring specialists can be invaluable. A simple touch of a button can request assistance right away during times when each moment counts.
Live safer and smarter in your Oklahoma City home with Vivint
Reduce the risk of falling and enhance your safety with a Vivint security system in Oklahoma City. Smart home capabilities like home automation and voice control are a great fit for seniors and other residents with mobility issues. Add a medical pendant to your system and get quick access to monitoring professionals whenever you need it. Place a call to (405) 777-7501 to design your system today.