You love your home. You’ve lived there for many years. You’ve raised your family there. You’ve known your neighbors for years. You and your neighbors look out for one another and help each other out. But things have changed. You enjoy your home, but heading upstairs to your bedroom or downstairs to do laundry is a struggle. You hesitate to go out because of the steps going in and out of your home. Your biggest worry is falling because that could involve broken bones, surgery, and possibly a stay in the nursing home for rehab.
Do these concerns sound familiar for either yourself or your loved one? Be assured, you’re not alone. As a matter of fact, Wisconsin leads the country in fall-related deaths for people aged 65+. More than a quarter of the state’s residents aged 65+ have reported they’ve fallen, so your concerns are legitimate and real. Fortunately, there are options to allay your fears.
Stair lifts are a cost-effective option to help alleviate some of your worry. Whether you have a straight set of stairs, stairs that curve on the way up, or multiple levels of stairs, there’s an option for you. For the price of one month in an assisted-living facility, you can install stair lifts that can keep you in the comfort of your own home without worry. Are you perhaps having surgery and only need a temporary stair lift option? Straight stair lifts can be rented and removed when you no longer need them!
Bathrooms are another area at risk for falls. Rugs can cause slipping; wet floors are a hazard. Consider having some sturdy grab bars installed as well as a barrier-free or curbed shower or even a tub cutout. Toilet seat risers, toilet safety frames, shower chairs, and transfer benches are all good choices to stay safer in the bathroom.
Getting in and out of chairs/recliners can be frustrating. Think about a lift chair. Today’s modern lift chairs are attractive, comfortable, and come in a wide range of colors and options. Watch the big game in comfort without worry. Be sure to pick one that’s appropriate for your height and weight.
Now let’s discuss the steps on the outside of your home. Sturdy, slip-resistant aluminum modular ramps are a great option for entering and exiting your home easily, with safe access and quick assembly. If you just need a temporary ramp, they’re rentable in all sizes too.
Lastly, rather than miss out on some fun, get mobile with a power wheelchair or electric scooter. Both are easy to drive and maneuver, and they disassemble into lightweight pieces that can easily be stored in your back seat or trunk. Find a company that can assist you with the proper equipment for your height and weight, and get back in the game.
There are cost-effective choices to alleviate your safety concerns, and these solutions are worth checking into to make your life easier. Find a reputable medical equipment company to develop a plan designed specifically for you, then get out and enjoy life worry free.
Submitted by HME Home Medical.
HME HOME MEDICAL
(800) 236-2619
hmehomemedical.com
cdc.gov/falls/data