Anti-slip solutions for older people are particularly worthwhile, as they significantly reduce the risk of falls and their sometimes serious consequences for those affected..
With increasing age, physical stability and reaction speed decline, which increases the risk of accidents in the home. By using non-slip floor coverings, anti-slip mats and grab handles, hazards can be defused. These anti-slip solutions for older people therefore help to preserve older people’s independence and safety in their own homes and prevent potentially serious injuries, which are often associated with long recovery times.
What consequences can falls have in old age?
“In old age, falls can have life-threatening consequences. Studies show that 80 per cent of all fatal accidents in the home happen to people over 65.
Of course, it need not come to that. But injuries and fractures are also serious risks: as a result of a fall, 160,000 older people suffer a hip fracture every year. Those affected are very afraid of never getting back on their feet, and this fear is real: for 30 per cent of them, it leads directly to long-term care dependency. Some can still be cared for at home, but most have to move into a
care home because they need permanent care.” (Source: Deutsche Seniorenliga e.V.: Preventing falls in the home)
How can older people make their homes slip-resistant?
To make the home slip-resistant for older people and minimise the risk of falls, the following anti-slip solutions for older people can be used, among others:
- Non-slip floor coverings in bathroom and kitchen: Install non-slip tiles or special anti-slip mats. Use self-adhesive anti-slip stickers in the shower and bath. You can also apply liquid anti-slip floor coatings retrospectively.
- Living areas: Consider using rugs with non-slip underlays or vinyl floors, which are inherently slip-resistant.
- Bathroom grab handles: Fit grab handles in the shower, next to the toilet and at the edge of the bath.
- Stairs: Install slip-resistant handrails on both sides of the stairs. With our self-adhesive, slip-resistant stair handrail tape, you can also easily retrofit existing handrails.. Stair treads can be fitted, for example, with our self-adhesive, slip-resistant stair nosings or anti-slip strips .
- Non-slip rug underlays: Use non-slip underlays under rugs and runners to prevent them from slipping.
Fix corners: make sure that all rugs lie flat and that no corners or edges stick up that could be a trip hazard. - Clear walkways and furniture layout: Make sure that furniture and other objects do not stand in walkways.
- Secure cables: Fix loose cables to the walls or use cable ducts/cable protectors or cable mats to avoid trip hazards.
Good lighting: Ensure sufficient lighting in all areas, especially in hallways, stairwells and bathrooms.
Night lights: install night lights or lights with motion sensors to make walking around at night safer. - Shoes with non-slip soles: Wear non-slip shoes or slippers at home for additional safety.
- Floor care: Keep floors clean and dry to avoid slippery patches.
- Inspection: Check all safety measures regularly to make sure they remain effective.
Conclusion
By combining these measures, older people can make their homes considerably more slip-resistant and thus significantly reduce the risk of falls. Here you can find all our anti-slip solutions.
Frequently asked questions about anti-slip solutions for older people
Where do older people fall most often?
Common hazard points are the bathroom and shower, stairs, rug edges, cables and poorly lit hallways. That is where anti-slip solutions come in.
Which measures help on stairs?
High-contrast stair nosings make the step edge visible and grippy. A continuous handrail that is easy to grip and good lighting add to safety.
Are the solutions also suitable for care facilities?
Yes. In care homes and clinics, occupational safety and hygiene requirements also apply. We match the product and cleaning to your facility.