How to prevent falls in your Myrtle Beach home
Stumbling on an electrical cord or losing your balance on a loose rug could seem minor to many, but they can be catastrophic for seniors. In reality, falls are the No. 1 cause of injury for adults over 65. If you are a senior or a family member watching over an elderly parent, find tips on how to prevent falls in your Myrtle Beach home, and see how the latest smart home features can make a difference.
Simple ways to prevent falls
Basic precautions will make a big difference in keeping you or your loved one safe. With that being said, you also must look at the bigger picture and consider any health-related issues that might elevate the chance of falls.
- Check your home for hazards. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other random belongings off the floors. Secure rugs. Ensure hallways and common areas are free of power cords.
- Install safety equipment. Simple home improvements like safety bars in bathrooms and handrails next to stairs can make a noticeable difference. If you have steps, think about supplementing your handrails with non-slip treads.
- Opt for sensible footwear. Flimsy slippers, heels, flip-flops, and worn-down shoes with smooth soles elevate the risk of falling. Select shoes that fit with proper support and non-skid soles.
Get advice from a healthcare professional
Beyond the basic precautions like keeping items off your floors, you need to consider your health and get advice from a doctor. Several medical conditions and medications can heighten your fall risk. Keep your routine healthcare appointments and vision checks, and make sure you know the possible side effects of new medications.
Keeping active is also vital to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Keep to a regular exercise regimen approved by your healthcare provider. While exercise is crucial, you can also reduce unnecessary movements and make your life more convenient with a smart home.
Add safety and convenience with a smart home
Getting up and down repeatedly to adjust lights, lock your door, or adjust your thermostat isn’t necessary. A smart home will help! Here’s how:
- Mobile access: Leading smart homes can be controlled by mobile apps. You can turn lights on or off, adjust your thermostat, lock your door, and even arm your security system without leaving your chair.
- Voice activation: You don’t even need your phone to control your smart home! Sync your home to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just use your voice to control tools like lights and locks.
- Custom automation. Want to make life even easier? You can configure smart automation actions and allow your equipment to activate independently. Set a full scene at the end of the day and have your system arm, thermostat update, door secure, and lights dim simultaneously.
In the worst-case scenario of a fall, a medical device that links to your smart home monitoring agents can be critical. A simple press of a button can get you support fast during times when every moment counts.
Live safer and smarter in your Myrtle Beach home with Vivint
Decrease the risk of falling and increase your safety with a Vivint home security system in Myrtle Beach. Smart home features like voice commands and home automation are a great fit for seniors and other residents with mobility restrictions. Add a medical alert to your smart home and get immediate access to monitoring specialists during emergencies. Call (843) 483-5033 to design your system today.