Most falls occur in the home, where most people feel safe, but sadly, where some of the most common causes of falls exist. These include stairs, slippery floors, and electrical cords. If you are growing in years or have an elderly parent or elderly relative in your life, you need to make sure your home is safe for them.

1. Talk to your elders

Most older people are afraid of falling. You should talk to them and explain how they can reduce their risk of falling. By simply letting go of their fear of falling, an older person can stay healthy and independent for much longer.

2. Be aware of underlying medical conditions

The first step you need to take is to find out if your older loved one is experiencing any health problems. They and you should be aware of any medical conditions that may cause an older person to lose balance, coordination, and flexibility, which can often contribute to falls.

After learning about current health conditions, see if they have left anything untreated. If so, encourage them to visit their doctor as soon as possible.

3. Stay focused on what they are doing

Everyone should be encouraged to stay focused and not let their minds wander as they walk. Especially when going up and down stairs or steps. Stairs or steps are where most falls occur.

Be sure to look around you and see if there are any obstacles in front of you. When going up or down stairs or steps, be sure to use handrails when available. If you get dizzy when climbing stairs, hold on to the railing and take deep breaths to calm yourself until the feeling passes.

Put grab bars in showers, bathtubs, and next to toilets. Throw away bathroom rugs or make sure they can’t be moved by using double-sided tape or non-slip material.

4. Stop rushing

You should never be in a hurry. If you don’t have a job, you have all the free time in the world to get where you’re going. This means that you should always walk calmly. Taking it slow and step by step is one way to make sure you don’t fall.

5. Get help from a physical therapist

You need to know if there is a reason to seek the help of a physical therapist. If you are holding on to furniture, walls, or other objects in your home while walking, then it may be time to see your doctor and get professional help.

Through exercise, a physical therapist can help you improve your strength and balance. A cane or walker can give you more stability than other objects in your home.