How to prevent falls in your Grand Rapids home
Tripping on an electrical cord or losing your balance on an unsecured rug may seem inconsequential to many, but these accidents can be disastrous for seniors. In fact, falls are the top cause of injury for people over 65. If you’re a senior or a relative caring for an elderly parent, discover how to prevent falls in your Grand Rapids home, and see how innovative smart home features can make a difference.
Simple ways to prevent falls
Basic precautions will help a great deal in keeping you or a family member safeguarded. However, you also must take a big-picture approach and evaluate any medical-related issues that may make falls more of a concern.
- Check your home for hazards. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other random items off the floors. Tape down rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of power cords.
- Install safety features. Simple home improvements like support bars in showers and handrails beside stairs can significantly improve safety. If you have steps, think about supplementing your railings with slip-resistant treads.
- Choose sensible shoes. Flimsy slippers, flip-flops, heels, and worn-down shoes with smooth soles elevate the risk of falling. Find options that fit well with good support and non-slip soles.
Seek guidance from medical professionals
In addition to the simple precautions like keeping your floors clear, you need to assess your health and seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Some health complications and prescriptions can elevate your fall risk. Keep your normal checkups and vision checks, and make sure you understand the possible side effects of your medicines.
Keeping active is also important to maintain your balance, strength, and flexibility. Stick to a regular exercise plan approved by your medical provider. While exercise is a must, you can also eliminate extra movements and make your life easier with a smart home.
Boost safety and convenience with a smart home
Repeatedly getting up and down to turn on the lights, lock your door, or adjust your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home will help! Here’s what you can do:
- Remote access: Top smart homes can be controlled by mobile apps. You can turn lights on or off, adjust your thermostat, lock your door, and even arm your security system without getting up.
- Voice activation: You don’t even need a smartphone to control your devices! Link your system to a voice assistant, then just use your voice to control equipment like locks and lights.
- Home automation. Want to make life even easier? You can configure smart automation actions and let your components activate automatically. Set a comprehensive scene at the end of the day and have your security arm, thermostat adjust, door secure, and lights lower on their own.
If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical device that contacts your smart home monitoring team can be invaluable. A simple press of a button can request support fast during times when every moment matters.
Stay safe in your Grand Rapids home with Vivint
Decrease the chances of falling and increase your safety with a Vivint security system in Grand Rapids. Smart home features like voice control and custom automation are a great fit for seniors and other residents with mobility restrictions. Add a medical alert to your system and get quick access to monitoring specialists during emergencies. Place a call to (616) 747-8419 to create your system today.