…and avoid being evicted from your home!
Did you know your favorite throw rug could cost you $35,000! How about that loose cord you keep meaning to secure? Or the steps that have no color contrast? These and other obstacles constantly cause falls that require expensive medical intervention.
They’re tripping hazards – and they cost seniors millions of dollars. Consider these facts as researched by The Living in Place Institute:
- Over 300,000 Americans turn 65 every month.
- According to the CDC, 1 in 3 adults over 65 has a fall every year.
- The average cost of falls (among the 20 most expensive medical conditions to treat) comes to $35,000.
Here’s the GOOD news. It only takes a few simple actions to save that much money.
The best remedies for a hazard-free home.
Safety starts at home. While we love to decorate, retain valuables, even keep sentimental objects, we unwittingly place tripping hazards right in front of our feet. Solutions include furniture re-arrangement, securing wires, or just letting some things go. For example:
- Throw rugs are hazardous. Typically loose, they easily catch a toe that sends you flying to the floor. No matter how much you like them, or how well they complete your décor, it’s time to get them off the floor.
- Area rugs, usually heavier, also cause falls when the corners are turned up or edges aren’t secure. If you really can’t live without them, use 2-sided tape to keep sides and corners flat. Place a non-skid pad underneath but make sure everything stays flat. A low pile with a tight weave and smooth texture is your best option.
- Wireless appliances don’t use cords but if you still have cables or lamp cords sticking out, get them out of sight! Tuck them behind furniture or secure them with tape to walls and floors so they don’t catch a hand, foot, or piece of clothing.
- If you can’t avoid stairs add traction strips to prevent slipping. Another prevention is to contrast the step edges to increase visibility.
- Say goodbye to that well-used extra chair or foot rest that blocks your path. Yes, it’s tough to part with furniture you love, but if you have to alter your steps to go around something, you need to either move it, or clear it out completely.
Don’t get evicted from your home because of a fall.
Maintaining a safe home is the key to living in it as long as you want. Too often, injuries from falls force people into assisted living before they’re ready. Don’t let it happen to you!
Even if it means a little less décor around your home, it’s still lovelier than the stark walls and tiled floors of an Emergency Room.
And…just think of what you could do with $35,000!
Live easy,
~Jeanette
P.S. The best way to determine how to make your home safe is to do a consultation or a home assessment with me. Getting started is as easy as calling 480-695-1360 or sending an e-mail to [email protected].
For more tips on making your home save, download our FREE e-Book “10 Easy Ways” To Maximize Your Independence…for Years to Come. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD
