How to prevent falls in your Des Moines home

Losing your balance on a loose rug or stumbling on a power cord might seem inconsequential to many, but they can be devastating for seniors. Truth be told, falls are the leading cause of injury for people over 65. If you’re a senior or a relative watching over a parent or grandparent, learn how to prevent falls in your Des Moines home, and see how innovative smart home features can boost safety.

Check out simple tips for preventing falls

Straightforward precautions will help a great deal in keeping you or your loved one protected. With that being said, you also must look at the bigger picture and think about any medical-related issues that may increase the risk of falls.

• Assess your home for hazards. Keep deliveries, papers, clothing, and other objects off your floor. Secure rugs. Ensure walking areas are free of electrical cords.
  
  
• Install safety equipment. Basic home improvements like handrails next to stairs and grab bars in showers can greatly improve safety. If you have steps, consider supplementing your railings with slip-resistant treads.
  
  
• Choose the right shoes. Flimsy slippers, heels, flip-flops, and old shoes with no tread left raise the risk of falls. Choose options that fit with solid support and non-slip soles.

Consult with your doctor

In addition to the basic precautions like keeping your floors clear, you need to think about your health and get advice from a healthcare professional. Certain medical conditions and prescriptions can make you more prone to falls. Keep your regular checkups and vision exams, and ensure you know the possible side effects of your medicines.

Keeping active is also vital to maintain your balance, strength, and flexibility. Stay on a regular exercise routine approved by your healthcare provider. While exercise is crucial, you can also cut out extra movements and make life simpler with a smart home.

Boost convenience and safety with a smart home

Constantly getting up and down to adjust lights, secure your door, or adjust your thermostat is unnecessary and avoidable. A smart home can help! Here’s what you can do:

• Mobile access: Top smart homes can be operated by mobile apps. You can adjust thermostat and lighting settings, secure your doors, and even arm your security from any location. 

• Voice control: You don’t even need your phone to control your smart home! Link your system to a voice assistant, then just use your voice to control tools like lights and locks.

• Custom automation. Want to make life even simpler? You can set custom automation actions and allow your components to run on their own. Set a comprehensive scene when you go to bed and have your lights lower, security arm, thermostat update, and doors lock automatically.

If the unthinkable happens and you fall, a medical pendant that contacts your smart home monitoring team can be a lifesaver. A simple touch of a button can request support fast at times when each moment counts.

Stay safe in your Des Moines home with Vivint

Lower the chances of falling and live smarter with a Vivint alarm system in Des Moines. Smart home features like voice control and home automation are ideal for seniors and other people with mobility issues. Add a medical pendant to your smart home and get immediate access to monitoring specialists when you need it most. Place a call to (515) 972-5232 to design your system today.