As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take measures to stay safe. One of the most common dangers that seniors face in Florida is slip, trip and fall accidents. These accidents can cause severe injuries and, in some cases, even death.
1. Clean up clutter
One of the best ways to avoid slip, trip and fall accidents is to keep your environment neat and tidy. This means taking measures to prevent clutter in your home, like putting away items you are not using or keeping things like electrical cords and rugs neatly out of the way.
2. Wear proper footwear
Socks are the go-to footgear at home, but they present a higher risk of personal injury. If you must wear them, look for nonslip socks with grips on the bottom. When leaving home, always wear shoes that fit properly and provide good support. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, and other types of shoes that can cause you to trip or slip.
3. Keep your home well-lit
The truth is, our eyes get worse as we age. This makes it more difficult to see in low-light conditions and can increase the risk of falls. To avoid this, keep your home well-lit, both inside and out. Consider installing motion sensor lights outside your home so that you can see when approaching your front door at night. Also, keep lamps next to your bed so you can easily find them if you need to get up during the night.
4. Use assistive devices
If you have difficulty walking or standing, there are several assistive devices that can help you stay safe, like canes and walkers. You can also use grab bars and raised toilet seats. These devices can provide the support you need to avoid falls.
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise helps improve balance and coordination, which can help you avoid falls. There are several exercises specifically designed for seniors, such as walking, water workouts and tai-chi, just to mention but a few.
It’s important to know that if you fall and get injured due to someone else’s negligence, you can file a personal injury claim to get some compensation that could help you with medical bills and other costs incurred due to the unfortunate accident. Florida Statutes § 95.11 gives you up to four years to bring a case against the at-fault party.
