Positive Ageing - Look Out For Hazards

Slipping or tripping puts older people out of action every week – and, each year, one out of every two people over the age of 80 years will have a fall.

Most homes can be made a little safer.Try and eliminate the risks using this checklist.

• Electric cords should be tucked behind furniture or taped down. Do you need more power points installed?
• Get into the habit of shutting cupboards and drawers properly so you won’t walk into them or trip on them.
• A draft excluder fitted to the bottom of the door is a better option than a door ‘sausage’.
• Your lounge chair, and your bed, should be at the right height for you to get up easily. Chairs with solid arm-rests can be easier to rise from.
• Worn or torn carpet should be replaced or repaired. Get rid of mats that curl at the corners.
• Keep toiletries within easy reach in a shower caddy rather than bending down to the shower floor.
• Ensuring the towel rail is close to the bath or shower will minimise drips on the bathroom floor.
• Keep all floors dry – wipe up spills as they happen.
• Hand-rails on steps should extend beyond the last step, so you have support right to the floor. Do you need handrails on both sides of the stairs?
• A white strip along the edge of outdoor steps will make them easier to see.
• Outside surfaces, including decks, need to be kept clear of moss and wet, slippery leaves.

The Centre of Research and Evaluation and Social Assessment has a booklet designed to help home-owners check their own levels of household maintenance and repairs. The Centre is currently testing and updating this booklet and is looking for 150 volunteers over age 50 in Marlborough to participate. If you are interested phone Bev Doole 570 5233 or email bev.doole@clear.net.nz