How to prevent falls in your Charleston home

Stumbling on a power cord or losing your balance on a loose rug could seem minor to many, but they can be catastrophic for seniors. Truth be told, falls are the No. 1 cause of injury for people over 65. If you’re a senior or a relative looking after an elderly parent, discover how to prevent falls in your Charleston home, and see how innovative smart home features can make a difference.
Simple tips to prevent falls
Simple precautions will go a long way to keeping you or your loved one safeguarded. However, you also have to take a big-picture approach and consider any health-related issues that may increase the risk of falls.
- Check for hazards throughout your home. Keep clothing, papers, boxes, and other assorted belongings off the floors. Anchor rugs. Ensure walkways are free of electrical cords.
- Install safety features. Standard home improvements like railings beside stairs and support bars in showers can make a big difference. If you have steps, think about supplementing your railings with slip-resistant treads.
- Choose sensible shoes. Flimsy slippers, sandals, heels, and worn-out shoes with slippery soles increase the chance of falls. Select shoes that fit with solid support and non-skid soles.
Talk to your doctor
In addition to the simple precautions like keeping your floors clear, you need to think about your health and consult with a medical professional. Certain medical conditions and medicines can make you more prone to falls. Keep your regular appointments and vision tests, and ensure you know the possible side effects of your medicines.
Remaining active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Keep to a daily exercise plan approved by your doctor. While exercise is a must, you can also cut out extra activity and make life easier with a smart home.
Enhance convenience and safety with a smart home
Getting up and down constantly to adjust lights, lock your door, or reset your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home will help! Here’s how:
- Mobile access: Top smart homes are controlled by mobile apps. You can adjust thermostat and lighting levels, lock your doors, and even arm your system without getting up.
- Voice control: You don’t even have to use your phone! Link your home’s security to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just use your voice to control devices like locks and lights.
- Custom automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can set smart automation actions and let your components activate automatically. Set a scene when you go to bed and have your doors lock, lights dim, system arm, and thermostat adjust simultaneously.
If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical pendant that contacts your smart home monitoring agents can be invaluable. A simple touch of a button can summon help right away during times when every second matters.
Stay safe in your Charleston home with Vivint
Reduce the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint home security system in Charleston. Smart home tools like voice commands and home automation are perfect for seniors and others with mobility issues. Add a medical device to your smart home and get quick access to monitoring agents whenever you need it. Place a call to (843) 892-5638 to design your system today.