Categories Health

Keeping Older People Safe on the Stairs

The stairs can be one of the most dangerous areas of the house. Even among young, healthy people, there is a risk of trips and falls, which can cause serious injuries. Among the elderly population, a big percentage of fatal falls occur on the stairs. That’s why it’s so important to keep them safe near the stairs, and here are some ways you can do so.

Fit a stairlift

Once older people start to get frail or suffer dizziness, you should consider getting them a stairlift. Work with a stairlift company Northampton to find the perfect model for them. You’ll find stairlifts that are perfect for all sorts of stairwells, no matter how narrow or winding, and once fitted, your loved one can zip between floors easily, without the risk.

Remove hazards

There are a number of hazards around the stairs:

  • Items left at the top of the stairwell
  • Pets wandering around
  • Steep or uneven steps
  • Missing bannisters

You should carry out your own risk assessment to see where potential dangers lie. Things like missing bannisters are easy to replace, yet can potentially save a life, so you should ensure that these things are secure.

If you have an older person in your home, or someone who is less than steady on their feet, you should definitely be thinking about stair safety. Just a few steps can make a big difference and make the risk of an accident less likely, so make sure you take the time to ensure your stair area is secure