Safe Holiday Decorating with a Balance Disorder

Holiday decorating is one of the funnest parts of the holidays, but it can be pretty difficult to handle for those with balance disorders. They have a higher risk of falling down and getting injured when reaching for high shelves, climbing ladders, and crossing slippery floors. 

Decorating can still be done without having to sacrifice any part of the fun, as long as one makes some tweaks and prepares. Holiday creativity allows one to maintain their health with different methods, including stability aids, workspaces, and pacing tasks. But these little actions have a major impact on a person’s enjoyment during the holidays.  

Considering Safety When Creating Decorations

Planning the decorating process ahead of time lowers risks before opening boxes of ornaments. Moving around is made easier, and the likelihood of trips or slips is decreased by identifying stable surfaces, staying away from cluttered walkways, and making sure there is enough lighting. Stable footing and easier access to decorating areas are made possible by clear paths.

Selecting decorations that are manageable and light in weight also promotes safe mobility. Avoiding heavy or breakable objects reduces the possibility of decorations falling, which could injure people or create obstructions. Safety is given top priority without compromising the festive atmosphere, thanks to careful preparation.

Selecting Safer Lighting Alternatives

Although tangled cords or misplaced plugs can cause tripping hazards, stringing lights can add to the festive atmosphere. Trip hazards can be reduced by using LED lights with thin cords and fastening them to railings or walls.

Even more versatility and security are provided by wireless or battery-powered lighting. These alternatives let people enjoy festive illumination without sacrificing balance by eliminating the need for extension cords or going through crowded areas. Holiday lights can safely spread joy throughout the house when placed properly.

Making Use of Step Stools and Ladders

When hanging lights or putting objects on the high shelves, most people use ladders and step stools, but this is hard for those with balance issues. They can achieve stability when they use a strong ladder with non-slip feet and a strong platform. 

Another way to improve balance is to put the ladder on a level surface and keep three points of contact using one hand and the two feet. Asking for help to pass the decorations or hold the ladder reduces feelings of strain and keeps the person more balanced. These modifications allow access to high areas without compromising safety and prevent falls.

Establishing Sturdy Surfaces for Ornaments

Mantels, shelves, and tables are used for displays, but their shaky surfaces make spills and falls more likely. To stop decorations from slipping or toppling over, secure them with museum wax, double-sided tape, or non-slip pads.

Decals that are lowered to reachable heights minimize bending and reaching, which can cause balance issues. While preserving visual appeal, arranging objects at eye or waist level promotes safer interaction. It is simpler to enjoy decorative elements safely with minor placement and support adjustments.

Overseeing Walking Areas and Floors

Moving around the house while holding multiple objects or standing for a long time is common when decorating. But for those with balance disorders, there’s a higher risk of falling down during these times. This is especially because of the rugs, cords, and other objects left on the floor. The next step is to remove loose rugs, tape the cords down, and keep the floors dry.

One becomes even more stable when they wear supportive, closed-toe shoes while they walk around, especially on slippery floors. The right footwear also makes it more convenient to move around the house while decorating without falling down. 

Sustaining Pleasure and Security

Decorating for the holidays is meant to be fun and not lead to a bigger accident. Fatigue and some risks become less likely when the person paces their activities, breaks tasks down to smaller ones, and asks for help when needed. Energy management is made possible by alternating between standing and sitting activities.

Additional techniques for safe movement during the season can be obtained with expert advice or by speaking with a balance professional. Holiday decorating will become safer and fun when a person prepares well and uses the right tools. Also, being proactive ensures that the holidays remain injury-free and happy, even when dealing with poor balance.