MSBCOC | Seniors
Be Careful of Falling
Dale Gauthier,
Lifeline Community Outreach Manager, Munson Home Care

Falls in the home can occur in bathrooms, bedrooms and on stairs. The following checklist is designed to help anyone who has mobilization issues in the home, whether it be from hip surgery, knee surgery, car accident or has that fall potential. Mobility and fall issues have no boundaries when it comes to age, anyone can fall.

• Paint the edges of outdoor steps and steps that are especially narrow or are higher of lower than the rest.
• Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction. Keep Outdoor walkways clear and well-lit.
• Clear snow and ice from entrances and walkways.
• Inside your home, remove all extraneous clutter.
• 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 nonslip backing.
• Do not stand on a chair to reach things. Store frequently used objects where you can reach them easily.
• Have a lamp or light switch that can easily be reached 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.
• Add grab bars in shower, tub and toilet area.
• Use nonslip adhesive in shower or tub.
• Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower.
• Consider using an elevated toilet seat.
• Use helping devices such as canes or walker as directed by your health care provider.
• Wear nonslip, low healed shoes or slippers that fit snugly. Avoid walking around in stocking feet.
• Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over the counter drugs, can make you drowsy, dizzy or unsteady.
• Discuss safe amounts of alcohol intake with your physician.
• Have your hearing and eyesight tested. Inner ear problems can affect your balance. Vision problems make it difficult to see potential hazards.
• Exercise regularity to improve muscle flexibility, strength and balance. Talk to your healthcare professional about exercise programs that are right for you.
• If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit down or stay seated until your head clears. Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.