Falls are the leading cause of calls to the Manitowoc Fire Department, prompting a seminar on Wednesday to help address the most common causes of falls among senior residents.
Chief Todd Blaser spoke to Seehafer News prior to the presentation at the Manitowoc Senior Center.
He said one thing he has noticed is that most of the falls he sees are preventable, both in houses and apartments. The tips he planned to discuss during the seminar included “making sure that throw rugs or area rugs are double-taped down to the floor, making sure that proper shoes are worn. Slippers aren’t necessarily the right thing to wear around the house, or socks in the colder weather: a good non-slip slipper or shoe of some sort is probably the best.”
Additionally, he advised keeping stairwells well-lit and uncluttered, as well as maintaining a clean bathroom where “making sure you have grab bars where needed or looking for convenience devices for the older we get when it might be harder to stand and sit.”
When visitors come to the door, Blaser advised not to jump out of the chair or sofa immediately. Rather, get up slowly and do not allow the pressure of greeting a visitor to get in the way of cautiously navigating towards the front door.
Adult children visiting their fall-prone parents can help ensure a safe living environment by keeping an eye out for a few clear signs of danger. “Take a look where mom and dad are residing right now, or if its an elderly friend or neighbor … take the time. We love the cooperation. It’s always a great thing within the community here. Our public safety can’t do it alone.”
Despite the risk of falling among elderly residents, Chief Blaser noted that pride and a longing for independence can be a factor that interferes with making lifestyle changes that lead to safer homes. He encouraged Manitowoc residents to set those feelings aside to follow the aforementioned steps to increase their quality of life.
Those who missed the presentation can visit the department online for more information.
