FALL PREVENTION
Maintain your health and independence by preventing falls. Here's how to reduce your or your loved one’s risk of falling.
General Tips
- Sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes when you first wake up and make sure you are not dizzy before you get out of bed.
- Eat breakfast every morning. Skipping a meal could make you dizzy.
- Be careful around pets, they can get in front of your feet or jump on you.
- Use a cane, walker, or wheelchair if you are unsteady or lose your balance. Promptly replace worn rubber tips of these devices.
- Wear glasses for distances if you need them, but remove reading glasses before you walk.
Eliminate Hazards
- Wear clothes and shoes that fit you properly. You can trip on a coat, pair of pants or bathrobe that is too long or baggy.
- Remove rugs and avoid leaving objects on the floor. Reduce clutter.
- Keep cabinet drawers/doors closed so you won't stumble over them.
Bathroom Safety
- Use non-slip bathtub mats.
- Never grab a towel rack, shampoo holder, or soap tray for support in the shower. These will not hold a person's weight.
- Allow the soap suds to go down the drain before you move around in the shower. Do not turn suddenly.
- If you are prone to falling, use a shower chair and a handheld shower attachment.
- Clean up puddles of water immediately.
- Do not lock the bathroom door. That will delay help in reaching you.
Stair Safety
- Avoid carrying any package that will obstruct your view of the next step.
- Keep at least one hand on the handrail.
- Avoid distractions and concentrate on what you are doing;
Bedroom Safety
- Make your clothes in your closet easy to reach.
- Replace satiny sheets and comforters with products made of non-slippery material; i.e., cotton, wool.
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