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Fall Prevention Checklist
- Have a lamp or light switch that you
can easily reach without getting out of bed.
- Use night-lights in the bedroom,
bathroom and hallways.
- Keep a flashlight handy.
- Have light switches at both ends of
stairs and halls. Install handrails on both sides of stairs.
- Turn on the lights when you go into
the house at night.
- Add grab bars in shower, tub and
toilet areas.
- Use bath mats with suction cups.
- Use non-slip adhesive strips or a mat
in shower or tub.
- Consider using an elevated toilet
seat.
- Wear non-slip, low-heeled shoes or
slippers that fit snugly. Don't walk around in stocking feet.
- Remove all extraneous clutter in
house.
- Keep telephone and electrical cords
out of pathways.
- Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so
they lie flat. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip or
attach non-slip backing.
- Make certain that carpets are firmly
attached to the stairs.
- Use helping devices, such as canes,
when necessary.
- Purchase a step stool with high and
sturdy handrails. Repair or discard wobbly step stools. Do not stand
on a chair to reach things. Store frequently used objects where you
can reach them easily.
- Paint the edges of outdoor steps and
any steps that are especially narrow or are higher or lower than the
rest.
- Paint outside stairs with a mixture of
sand and paint for better traction. Keep outdoor walkways clear and
well lighted.
- Keep snow and ice cleared from
entrances and sidewalks.
- Review medications with your doctor or
pharmacist. Some drugs, including over-the-counter drugs, can make you
drowsy, dizzy and unsteady.
- Watch your alcohol intake. More than
two drinks per day can cause unsteadiness.
- Have your hearing and eyesight tested.
Inner ear problems can affect balance. Vision problems make it
difficult to see potential hazards.
- Exercise regularly to improve muscle
flexibility and strength.
- If you feel dizzy or
light-headed, sit down or stay seated until your head clears.
Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.
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