Best Fall Mats for Elderly Safety at Home

Why Falling Risk Increases with Age

As we get older, the risk of falling at home rises significantly. Falls are the top cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for the elderly. Limited mobility, chronic conditions, and medications can increase dizziness and reduce balance and strength.

Risk Factors for Elderly Falls

• Muscle weakness
• Poor vision
• Slow reaction time
• Utilizing mobility aids
• Taking sedating medications

Simple safety steps and adaptive equipment can safeguard against falling risks for seniors living at home.

Benefits of Fall Mats for the Elderly

Placing fall mats and anti-slip floor mats strategically around the house cushions against injury if an elderly person loses their balance or footing. Benefits include:

Why Elderly Individuals Should Use Fall Mats

• Absorbs force of impact
• Protects against head trauma
• Reduces hip fractures
• Provides comfortable padding to lie on after falling
• Non-slip bottom secures mat in place

For elderly parents living alone, fall mats add an extra layer of protection when help is not nearby.

Choosing the Best Fall Mat by Location

Installing fall prevention mats in key areas prone to falling helps seniors maintain independence while reducing risk. Consider placement based on fall statistics:

Where to Place Fall Mats at Home

• Bathroom - 75% of falls happen in the bathroom due to slick surfaces
• Stairways - Over 50% of accidents involve stairs and steps
• Kitchen - Countertop falls are common when reaching too high
• Bedroom - Getting in and out of bed causes loss of balance
• Entryways - Hurrying to answer the door leads to falls

Features to Look for in Anti-Slip Fall Mats

When selecting fall prevention mats, durability and functionality matter most for safety. Key features to evaluate:

Fall Mat Materials and Design

• Thickness - At least 34 inch thick to adequately absorb impact
• Beveled edges - Prevent tripping for easier mobility device navigation
• Non-slip backing - Grips most floor surfaces to prevent mat sliding
• Moisture resistant - Allows placement in bathrooms near sinks and tubs
• Antimicrobial - Inhibits mold and bacteria buildup in bath mats

Mats with safety handles provide leverage for getting up after a fall.

The Best Fall Mats for Elderly by Location

Choosing the right style anti-slip mat by room improves safety tailored to highest falling risk activities in each area of the house.

Top Recommended Fall Mats

Bathroom - Extra long anti-slip strip bath mats cover beyond shower doorway puddles

Stairs - Full stair tread mats with adhesive backing won't slide or wrinkle underfoot

Kitchen - Cushioned anti-fatigue comfort mats alleviate standing pressure

Bedroom - Soft memory foam mat cushions if getting in or out of bed unbalanced

Entryway - Highly absorbent carpet door mat scrapes shoes before entering house

Other Helpful Fall Safety Products

• Grab bars for bathrooms
• Shower chairs
• Handrails for hallways and stairs
• Improved lighting throughout house
• Medical alert system

How to Choose the Best Fall Protection Mats

Keep these tips in mind when selecting fall prevention accessories to protect elderly loved ones:

Tips for Picking the Best Fall Mat

• Assess which rooms falls happen in most based on specific activities
• Measure walkways and staircase dimensions when ordering stair mats
• Select moisture-resistant designs for bathroom, kitchen and laundry rooms
• Look for antimicrobial properties to inhibit mold in humid rooms
• Test mats on flooring surfaces to check non-slip grip backing
• Feel thickness and density; at least 34 inch is ideal
• Evaluate ease of cleaning; washable, non-porous surfaces resist dirt
• Check safety certifications by OT, FDA, and health organizations

Properly Installing Anti-Slip Mat Systems

Carefully putting down fall protection mats improves traction control and minimizes accidents. Here are application tips:

How to Install Fall Prevention Mats

• Clean and thoroughly dry flooring beforehand
• Check that mat fits space without buckling or shifting
• Carefully smooth down and secure edges
• For carpets, tuck mat borders under rug perimeter
• Adhere stair tread covers fully from step edge to edge
• Ensure cushioned mat does not slide once stepped on
• Apply non-permanent adhesive strips if needed
• Have elderly person test walk area before regular use

Caring for Anti-Slip Mat Surfaces

With proper maintenance, fall mats remain effective and maximize traction control and shock absorbing abilities.

Maintaining Fall Mats

• Check weekly for shifting, buckling edges
• Shake out debris like sand, grit, crumbs
• Spot clean soiled areas promptly
• Follow manufacturer washing instructions
• Use disinfectant spray to prevent odor, stains
• Allow bath mats to fully air dry if machine washing isnt possible
• Test cleaned mat on floors for adequate grip before reusing
• Replace damaged, worn mats for safety

Conclusion

Installing cushioned, non-slip fall mat flooring provides protective padding against injuries from falls around the home. Strategically placing absorbent mats by stairs, kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms pads high-risk zones. With grip tread backing and moisture resistant designs, anti-slip mats improve footing to keep elderly residents stable, secure and confident living independently.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.