How to prevent falls in your Chicago home

Losing your balance on a loose rug or tripping on a power cord might seem harmless to many, but these accidents can be devastating for seniors. In reality, falls are the leading cause of injury for adults over 65. If you are a senior or a relative caring for a loved one, learn how to prevent falls in your Chicago home, and see how innovative smart homes can make a difference.

Simple tips to prevent falls

Straightforward precautions will go a long way to keeping you or your loved one safe. Even so, you also must look at the bigger picture and evaluate any medical-related issues that could elevate the risk of falls.

• Check for hazards around your home. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other random objects off the floors. Secure rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of power cords.
  
  
• Install safety equipment. Simple home improvements like railings beside stairs and safety bars in bathrooms can greatly improve safety. If you use steps, supplement your handrails with non-slip treads.
  
  
• Choose the right shoes. Loose slippers, sandals, heels, and old shoes with slippery soles increase the risk of falls. Select shoes that fit well with solid support and non-skid soles.

Consult with your doctor

Beyond the basic 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 susceptible to falls. Keep your normal medical appointments and vision exams, and make sure you understand the potential side effects of your medications.

Remaining active is also essential to maintain your flexibility, strength, and balance. Stick to a regular exercise plan approved by your healthcare provider. While exercise is crucial, you can also reduce unnecessary activity and make life simpler with a smart home.

Enhance convenience and safety with a smart home

Getting up and down constantly to switch lights on or off, secure your door, or adjust your thermostat isn’t necessary. A smart home is able to help! Here’s what you can do:

• Mobile access: Many modern smart homes are controlled by cell phone apps. You can adjust lighting and thermostat settings, secure your doors, and even arm your security system from any location. 

• Voice commands: You don’t even need your phone to control your smart home! Sync your system to a smart speaker like Google Home or Amazon Alexa, then just use your voice to control equipment like lights and locks.

• Home automation. Want to make life even more effortless? You can program custom automation actions and allow your equipment to activate independently. Set a comprehensive scene when you go to bed and have your lights dim, security arm, thermostat update, and doors secure simultaneously.

If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical alert that connects to your smart home monitoring specialists can be invaluable. A quick touch of a button can summon assistance immediately during times when every moment counts.

Live safer and smarter in your Chicago home with Vivint

Lower the risk of falling and increase your safety with a Vivint alarm system in Chicago. Smart home features like voice control and home automation are ideal for seniors and other residents with mobility limitations. Add a medical alert to your system and get instant access to monitoring professionals when you need it most. Place a call to (312) 626-4802 to build your system today.