Fall Prevention – Tips to Prevent Falls

Tips to Prevent Falls in the Home

• Get rid of extra clutter
• Have telephone cords and electrical cords tied together and out of walking areas.
• Have frequently used items stored where they can be reached easily so you don’t need to stand on chairs or other unstable items.
• Be sure carpets are attached firmly to stairs.
• Have nonslip backing on the bottoms of rugs that slip easily. Glue down vinyl flooring.
• Keep home well-lit by turning on lights as you go into your home at night.
• Always have a flashlight nearby.
• Install night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
• Keep a lamp close to your bed that you can turn off and on easily without getting up.
• Have handrails on both sides of any stairs as well as light switches at each end. Have light switches at each end of halls also.
• Install grab bars in the bath, shower and toilet areas.
• Use mats or adhesive non-slip strips.
• Use a shower stool.

Tips to Prevent Falls When Outside

• Make sure walkways are cleared of ice and snow and are well lit.
• Paint stairs and sidewalks with a paint and sand mixture.
• Paint edges of steps so they are easy to see.
• When walking use helping devices such as walkers or canes.
• Wear shoes that are low-heeled with non-slip soles and that fit snugly.