Preventing Slips and Falls for Seniors in Baton Rouge

Did you know that falls are the leading cause of hospital readmissions among seniors?

To keep your loved ones safe and independent at home, make sure the right safety modifications are in place. Many hospitalizations can be prevented with just a few simple changes. For example, 1 in 10 falls results in an injury that keeps an older adult from their activities for at least a day (CDC). Each year, nearly 319,000 older adults are hospitalized for hip fractures alone, just one example of the serious consequences of falls.

With these risks in mind, let’s explore how professional support and practical changes can work together to keep seniors safer at home. At Griswold Home Care for Baton Rouge, we provide non-medical home care to help your loved one age safely and independently. Our compassionate Caregivers support seniors with daily activities and monitor for potential risks around the home.

We understand that living far from a parent or not being able to visit often can be challenging. Ensuring their home is safe and equipped with aging in place modifications is one of the best ways to protect your loved ones from falls and injuries.

Making Aging in Place Safer: 5 Home Modifications

Simple changes at home can make a big difference in keeping seniors safe and independent. Here are five home modifications that can help make aging in place safer:

1. Bathroom & Mobility Safety: Install grab bars next to toilets, showers, and tubs. Use non-slip mats in the shower and bath. Add raised toilet seats if needed.
2. Flooring and Walkway Hazards: Secure all rugs with non-slip backing. Keep hallways clear of clutter, shoes, cords, and furniture. Use non-slip mats in high-risk areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
3. Lighting Improvements: Use brighter bulbs to increase lighting. Add motion-sensor or touch-activated lights for the hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Ensure all stairways are well lit.
4. Stairways, Ramps, & Entryways: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of the stairs. Add ramps at entryways for wheelchair or walker access. Consider stairlifts for homes with multiple levels.
5. Kitchen & Everyday Accessibility: Keep frequently used items within easy reach by lowering shelves. Avoid step stools when possible or choose models with sturdy handrails if you need them. These thoughtful modifications can reduce risk and help seniors enjoy their homes with confidence.

Local Resources

In addition to these home modifications, local resources in Baton Rouge can provide valuable support.

ZITRO Construction Services: Specializing in bathroom remodeling for seniors, ZITRO offers an extensive portfolio and a team dedicated to aging in place. They can remodel your bathroom with safety and accessibility in mind, including installing grab bars for safe transitions and standing. Contact ZITRO for help with all your bathroom remodeling needs, from senior accessibility to general aging-in-place considerations.

Stairlifter USA Baton Rouge: For stairlift installations that improve mobility and accessibility, Stairlifter USA offers solutions tailored to your home. With the right stairlift, movement throughout the house becomes safer and more comfortable. Request a free quote or contact their team for more information.

How Griswold Can Help

Beyond home modifications, the support you choose for your loved one can make all the difference. Our team can help reduce the risk of falls at home in many ways. A Griswold Caregiver will ensure hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms are well lit and place non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen. They can also remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter and keep frequently used items within easy reach. Caregivers also encourage gentle exercises to improve balance and strength and are always available to help with any tasks that may feel unsafe. You can count on us for encouragement, companionship, and the support seniors need to feel secure at home.

Call Griswold Today

Contact us to learn more about fall prevention for seniors or schedule a complimentary home safety assessment. Our team is here to help your loved one remain safe and independent at home.