How to prevent falls in your St. Louis home

Losing your balance on a loose rug or tripping on an electrical cord might seem harmless to many, but these accidents can be catastrophic for seniors. Truth be told, falls are the No. 1 cause of injury for people over 65. If you are a senior or a family member looking after an elderly parent, find tips on how to prevent falls in your St. Louis home, and see how modern smart home features can boost safety.

Explore tips for preventing falls

Simple precautions will go a long way to keeping you or your loved one safe. However, you also must look at the bigger picture and consider any health conditions that may increase the chance of falls.

• Check for hazards throughout your home. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other objects off the floors. Tape down rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of power cords.
  
  
• Install safety equipment. Simple home improvements like handrails beside stairs and safety bars in bathrooms can make a significant difference. If you have steps, consider supplementing your handrails with slip-resistant treads.
  
  
• Choose the right footwear. Unsupportive slippers, heels, flip-flops, and worn-out shoes with slippery soles raise the risk of falling. Select shoes that fit well with solid support and non-skid soles.

Speak with your doctor

Beyond the basic precautions like keeping objects off your floors, you need to assess your health and seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Some health complications and prescriptions can make you more vulnerable to falls. Keep your normal medical checkups and vision exams, and make certain you know the potential side effects of new prescriptions.

Staying active is also vital to maintain your balance, strength, and flexibility. Stay on a regular exercise regimen approved by your medical provider. While exercise is a must, you can also reduce extra activity and make life more convenient with a smart home.

Boost convenience and safety with a smart home

Repeatedly getting up and down to switch lights on or off, lock your door, or adjust your thermostat isn’t necessary. A smart home can help! Here’s how:

• Remote access: Many modern smart homes can be controlled by cell phone apps. You can adjust lighting and thermostat settings, secure your doors, and even arm your system without leaving your chair. 

• Voice activation: You don’t even have to use your phone! Connect your home’s security to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just use your voice to control equipment like locks and lights.

• Custom automation. Want to make life even more effortless? You can program smart automation actions and let your components run independently. Set a scene at day’s end and have your system arm, thermostat adjust, door secure, and lights lower automatically.

In the worst-case scenario of a fall, a medical device that links to your smart home monitoring agents can be a lifesaver. A quick touch of a button can summon assistance right away during times when every moment matters.

Stay safe in your St. Louis home with Vivint

Lower the risk of falling and live smarter with a Vivint home security system in St. Louis. Smart home features like voice control and home automation are ideal for seniors and other people with mobility issues. Add a medical alert to your system and get instant access to monitoring professionals when you need it most. Dial (314) 866-4556 to create your system today.