How to prevent falls in your New Haven home

Slipping on an unsecured rug or stumbling on a power cord may seem minor to many, but these mishaps can be disastrous for seniors. In fact, falls are the top cause of injury for adults over 65. If you are a senior or a family member watching over a loved one, learn how to prevent falls in your New Haven home, and see how the latest smart homes can boost safety.

Easy ways to prevent falls

Simple precautions will make a big difference in keeping you or your loved one protected. Even so, you also have to look at the bigger picture and think about any health conditions that could increase your fall risk.

• Look for hazards throughout your home. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other items off the floor. Secure rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of power cords.
  
  
• Install safety features. Basic home improvements like support bars in showers and handrails beside stairs can greatly improve safety. If you use steps, think about supplementing your handrails with non-slip treads.
  
  
• Opt for sensible footwear. Loose slippers, flip-flops, heels, and worn-down shoes with smooth soles elevate the chance of falls. Choose shoes that fit well with proper support and non-skid soles.

Consult with your doctor

In addition to the simple precautions like keeping your floors clear, you need to consider your health and get advice from a medical professional. Several health conditions and medications can make you more prone to falls. Keep your routine healthcare appointments and vision tests, and make sure you know the potential side effects of any new prescriptions.

Staying active is also important to maintain your balance, strength, and flexibility. Stick to a regular exercise routine approved by your medical provider. While exercise is a must, you can also cut out unnecessary movements and make life easier with a smart home.

Add convenience and safety with a smart home

Repeatedly getting up and down to adjust lights, lock your door, or change your thermostat can be avoided. A smart home is able to help! Here’s how:

• Smartphone access: Top smart homes are controlled by mobile apps. You can adjust thermostat and light settings, secure your doors, and even arm your system from any location. 

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

• Custom automation. Want to make life even easier? You can configure home automation actions and let your devices run on their own. Set a scene when you go to bed and have your lights lower, system arm, thermostat update, and doors secure simultaneously.

If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical alert that connects to your smart home monitoring agents can be invaluable. A simple touch of a button can request assistance right away at times when every second counts.

Live smarter and safer in your New Haven home with Vivint

Reduce the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint alarm system in New Haven. Smart home capabilities like custom automation and voice activation are perfect for seniors and others with mobility restrictions. Add a medical alert to your system and get quick access to monitoring professionals when you need it most. Place a call to (203) 625-1716 to create your system today.