The festive season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebrations. However, with the hustle and bustle of holiday activities, it’s important to educate older adults on potential hazards in their environment that may cause a fall.
Common festive hazards
Decorations and Lighting
- Holiday decorations, cords, and tree skirts can create tripping hazards.
- Poorly secured or unstable decorations may topple over if bumped.
- Festive lighting can create dim areas or shadows, reducing visibility.
Cluttered Pathways
- Extra gifts, wrapping supplies, and furniture rearrangements can obstruct walking areas.
- Crowded spaces may limit mobility aids like walkers or canes.
Uneven or Slippery Surfaces
- Spills from holiday drinks or cooking may not be cleaned up immediately.
- Rugs or mats that are not secured can easily slip.
Tips to share with older adults to encourage a safe environment
- Clear pathways: Ensure walkways and living areas are free from clutter that could cause a fall such as cords, decorations or presents.
- Secure decorations: Use tape or clips to secure cords and keep them out of walking paths. Avoid using rugs or mats that may slip.
- Clean up spills: Encourage to clean up spills straight away as it’s easy to forget with all the commotion when preparing the Christmas meal.
- Improve lighting: Use adequate lighting in all rooms, especially on stairs and in entryways.
- Safe Footwear: Wear non-slip, supportive shoes even indoors. Avoid socks or loose slippers that can cause slips.
- Decorating activities: Avoid using ladders or stools to hang up decorations and get family or friends to assist with tasks. Alternatively consider decorations that do not require hanging.
- Stay hydrated and rested: Fatigue and dehydration can impair balance and increase fall risk. Have regular breaks and adequate fluid intake. Limit alcohol consumption and swap to non-alcohol options such as mocktails or flavoured soda water.
You can also encourage older adults to use the Stay On Your Feet® Home Safety Checklist which can be ordered or downloaded for free.