How to Make Stairs Safe for Seniors

1. Get a stairlift. The safest way for seniors to get up and down the stairs is by using a stairlift.
2. Add railings.
3. Eliminate carpet runners.
4. Add non-slip strips.
5. Add a resting spot.
6. Check the lights.
7. Keep the path clear.
8. Use contrasting colors.

•

How do you make stairs easier to climb for the elderly?

Another is to install anti-slip tape, abrasive treads, carpeting, or rubberized treads on each step. For staircases that are already carpeted, ensure that those carpets remain tightly secured against the floor. In many cases, helping the elderly with stairs can be as simple as adding handrails.

How do you stop an older person from falling down the stairs?

Falls are serious for anyone, but for a senior they are even more dangerous because of the potential ramifications of a fall. Thankfully, you do have options to help prevent falls at home and keep your senior loved one safe.

How can I increase the safety of my stairs?

Install highly visible handrails on both sides of the stairs. Handrails should be at a consistent height above stair nosings, ramp surfaces and walking surfaces. Top of handrail gripping surfaces should be 34 inches (86.5 cm) minimum and 38 inches (96.5 cm) maximum vertically above the stair nosing (see Figure 1.).

Are stairs bad for elderly?

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) reports that over 60% of accident-related deaths amongst the elderly are due to falls involving stairs or steps, while further studies show people over the age of 75 are as much as five times more likely than younger people to experience a stair-related injury.

Why do old people have trouble climbing stairs?

As we get older, we lose muscle strength and flexibility (although the right exercises can go a long way to maintaining this). Problems with vision contribute significantly to the difficulties older people experience going down the stairs. Any dizziness or unsteadiness will be much worse on the stairs.

Should elderly climb stairs?

Stair climbing increases leg power and may be an important priority in reducing the risk of injury from falls in the elderly. Stair climbing can help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. Stair climbing can help you build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints.

How can senior falls be prevented?

Take the Right Steps to Prevent Falls

1. Stay physically active.
2. Have your eyes and hearing tested.
3. Find out about the side effects of any medicine you take.
4. Get enough sleep.
5. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
6. Stand up slowly.
7. Use an assistive device if you need help feeling steady when you walk.

How can accidents be prevented on stairs?

How to avoid Accidents in the Stairs of your Home

1. Never rush down the stairs.
2. Keep the steps clear and in good conditions.
3. Always clean your stairs from the top down.
4. Make sure you keep the stairs well illuminated at night.

How do I stop falling down the stairs?

7 Steps to Avoiding Falls on the Stairs

1. Make sure your stairway is well lit.
2. Use a strong handrail.
3. Wear shoes with rubber soles.
4. Exercise, even just a little.
5. Get your vision checked regularly.
6. Give your stairway a second look.
7. Choose a quality stair lift.

How do I make my steep stairs safer?

Restructuring a steep staircase usually means the loss of living space on one or both of the floors connected by the staircase. To make the stairs safer to climb and descend, you must reduce stair riser height and increase tread depth. There is no simple fix for steep stairs, complete remodeling is necessary.

Which of the following are practices that help make using stairs safer?

Follow these tips to stay safe on stairways:

• Use handrails.
• Put your mobile device away.
• Take one step at a time.
• Make sure you can see the stairs.
• Keep stairways clear of clutter.
• Carry only what you can handle, leaving one hand free to use the handrail.
• Do not underestimate the risk of using the stairs.

How do handrails on stairs keep you safe?

Stair handrails The prime function of the handrail is for holding as support while going up or down stairs. Handrails must be “graspable”. It is therefore crucial to be able to grasp it quickly, easily and firmly if you should start losing your balance.

What can you use instead of stairs?

3 Alternatives to Stairs in the Home

• A Wheelchair Ramp Can Replace Stairs.
• Create Safe Accessibility With A Stair Lift.
• Integrate An In-Home Elevator.