How to prevent falls in your New Orleans home
Sliding on a loose rug or stumbling on an electrical cord could seem harmless to many, but they can be disastrous for seniors. In reality, falls are the No. 1 cause of injury for residents over 65. If you’re a senior or a relative looking after an elderly parent, learn how to prevent falls in your New Orleans home, and see how modern smart homes can help.
Simple tips to prevent falls
Basic precautions will go a long way to keeping you or a family member safeguarded. However, you also need to look at the bigger picture and think about any health conditions that may make falls more of a concern.
- Assess your home for hazards. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other objects off the floor. Anchor rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of electrical cords.
- Install safety equipment. Basic home improvements like railings beside stairs and safety bars in bathrooms can significantly boost safety. If you use steps, supplement your handrails with slip-resistant treads.
- Choose sensible shoes. Flimsy slippers, flip-flops, heels, and old shoes with smooth soles elevate the risk of falling. Find shoes that fit with proper support and non-skid soles.
Get advice from a medical professional
In addition to the simple precautions like keeping items off your floors, you need to assess your health and consult with a medical professional. Certain health conditions and prescriptions can make you more vulnerable to falls. Keep your regular medical checkups and vision exams, and ensure you understand the potential side effects of new medicines.
Remaining active is also essential to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Keep to a daily exercise regimen approved by your medical provider. While exercise is crucial, you can also cut out unnecessary movements and make your life more convenient with a smart home.
Add safety and convenience with a smart home
Constantly getting up and down to turn on the lights, secure your door, or adjust your thermostat is unnecessary and avoidable. A smart home is able to help! Here’s what you can do:
- Smartphone access: Leading smart homes can be operated by smartphone apps. You can adjust thermostat and lighting settings, secure your doors, and even arm your system without leaving your chair.
- Voice activation: You don’t even have to use your phone! Sync your home to a voice assistant, then just use your voice to control devices like locks and thermostats.
- Home automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can configure home automation actions and let your components run on their own. Set a comprehensive scene at day’s end and have your doors secure, lights dim, security arm, and thermostat update automatically.
In the rare event that you fall, a medical alert that contacts your smart home monitoring agents can be critical. A simple press of a button can request help fast during times when every moment counts.
Live smarter and safer in your New Orleans home with Vivint
Lower the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint alarm system in New Orleans. Smart home capabilities like voice activation and home automation are ideal for seniors and others with mobility limitations. Add a medical pendant to your smart home and get instant access to monitoring specialists during emergencies. Place a call to (504) 285-9448 to build your system today.