Falls are one of the biggest health hazards for elderly people. Sadly, a bad fall can hasten deaths too, as the elderly persons’ confidence and health plummet.
Falls are often caused by multiple factors, such as:
- Medications which can lower blood pressure
- General aches and pains, particularly around knees and hips, and osteoporosis in women
- Poor eyesight
- Dementia and poor cognitive and functional recognition
- Mini-strokes which can affect balance and other skills
- Underlying health conditions, including dizziness, vertigo, and fainting
- Dehydration: older people do not get as thirsty and sometimes medications can cause additional fluid loss
- Misplaced confidence in furniture such as beds, which with their often soft edges can promote falls
- Indoor hazards: elderly folk living alone at home often have much furniture and other potentially dangerous fall enablers, such as rugs and ornaments
- Outdoor hazards, like a rocky path to the clothesline, or moss on a path
Five products that can reduce the risk of falls
Whether living at a rest home, assisted living or at home, there are some products that can significantly help minimise the risk of falls for the elderly.
- Suction Safety Grab Rail
Suction grab rails use air pressure to fit onto smooth, nonporous surfaces. The mobile handles are quickly and easily attached, not requiring screws, tools, or professional help to install. They can be fixed to glass, tiles and acrylic surfaces, such as in the bathroom, shower, or kitchen.
Installing grab rails around the house can boost confidence and ease recovery for people recovering from injuries or minor surgery. They are particularly great for temporary use and travelling.
The Roth Mobelli Suction Safety Grab Rail is one of the best on the market
- Hip Protector
Hip protectors are worn over the hips to lessen the risk of breaking a hip should the wearer fall. They are designed to absorb or distribute the forces which influence the hip, and therefore reduce the risk of a fracture of the femoral collar.
A good hip protection belt should have a shock-absorbing effect for both hips, and be designed well for the body. It can be worn above or below clothes, so need to be comfortable to wear, plus easy to put on and remove.
- Non-slip shower mat
This is a must for anyone at any age, who is feeling a little shaky on their feet. Slipping in the shower or bathtub is one of the most dangerous hazards seniors face in the bathroom, as bath surfaces are often nonporous, slippery, and hard. Rubber bathmats with non-slip tread surfaces and suction-cupped bottoms can help users maintain stability.
Here’s our choice for a simple, affordable non-slip shower map
- Strollers or walkers
 The right walking frame can open up a senior person’s world while keeping them safe.
These mobility aids provide an additional level of support and balance for older adults going about their day. Strollers can help a person walk further, for longer, and keep doing the things they love.
Walking frames come in a variety of designs for a variety of needs. Some are fixed while others are folding and adjustable, some have wheels and others have seats. Many of the excellent ones are lightweight and easily transportable, while being able to support even heavier users.
A bestseller is the MOBILIS Plus Walking Frame
- Quad walking stick
Quad walking sticks increase stability when needed with four feet that provide better balance than the traditional single-footed walking stick. They are particularly useful for seniors who are relatively mobile but can benefit from a bit of added support. Designs with a lower and smaller base allow users to navigate even tight spaces with ease, while providing extra stability and versatility.
We’ve had great reviews on the Chevron Low Base Quad Walking Stick
*This guide is opinion based and should not to be used as medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional before purchasing products from our store as they know best.
