Top 25 Ways to Prevent Falls
Each year about one-third of all adults over the age of 65 will fall. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent falls. Many of these include:
1. Remove all loose wires, cords and throw rugs.
2. Keep floors free of clutter.
3. Be sure all carpets and area rugs have skid-proof backing or are tacked to the floor.
4. Do not use slippery wax on bare floors.
5. Keep furniture in its accustomed place.
6. Install grab bars on the bathroom walls beside the tub, shower and toilet.
7. Use a non-skid rubber mat in the shower or tub.
8. If you are unsteady on your feet, you may want to use a plastic chair with a back and non-skid legs in the shower or tub and use a hand-held shower head to bathe.
9. Use non-skid mats or rugs on the floor near the stove and sink.
10. Clean up spills as soon as they happen (in the kitchen and anywhere in the home).ROOM
11. Place light switches within reach of your bed and a night light between the bedroom and bathroom.
12. Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries beside your bed.
13. Keep stairwells well lit, with light switches at the top and the bottom.
14. Install sturdy handrails on both sides.
15. Mark the top and bottom steps with bright tape.
16. Make sure carpeting is secure.
17. Cover porch steps with gritty, weatherproof paint.
18. Install handrails on both sides of porch steps. HOUSE
19. Place items you use most often within easy reach. This keeps you from having to do a lot of bending and stooping.
20. Use assistive devices to help avoid strain or injury. For example, use a long-handled grasping device to pick up items without bending or reaching. Use a pushcart to move heavy or hot items from the stove or countertop to the table.
21. If you must use a stepstool, use a sturdy one with a handrail and wide steps.
22. If you live alone, you should consider wearing a personal emergency response system (PERS). Also consider buying a portable telephone to take from room to room so you can call for help immediately if you fall.
23. Don’t get up too quickly after eating, sitting or lying flat.
24. Talk to your healthcare professional or pharmacist about the side effects of drugs you take. Some can make you feel dizzy or drowsy.
25. If you are unsteady on your feet, use a cane or walker, even if you are going only a short distance.
