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Freeman Medical Focus: Elderly Home Safety

By: Drew Moore
Updated: July 5, 2012
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JOPLIN, MO-- Freeman Health System Physical Therapist Jana Brownlee says a home can be a dangerous place for seniors who live alone.  "One in three adults over the age of 65 fall per year."  Brownlee explains.  "With falls being the leading cause of death by injury for this age group."

To make your home safer, it could be as simple as putting grip tape on your stairs to avoid a fall.  Other possibilities could include installing a chair which can take you up and down stairs.  Freeman Rehabilitation Technology Specialist Cody Smith says devices to help people get around outside are becoming very popular.  "The scooters are a real aid to help them be able to get out and get mobile."  Smith explains.

Brownlee says using a few of these items could help seniors stay safe, and stay independent.  "If it's a simple matter of getting a piece of adaptive equipment, or a mobility device that's going to increase your safety.  It could prolong how long you can stay in your home."

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