Preventing Falls

Home accidents are a major cause of injury and death, especially for those over 60. As people grow older, they may be less agile and their bones tend to break more easily. A fall can result in a disabling injury. All patients need to take special precautions to ensure a safe living environment.

Most accidents in the home can be prevented by the elimination of hazards. See these tips to determine the safety level of your home.

General Safety

Emergency phone numbers are posted by each telephone
Outside doors are kept locked at all times. Do not open the door to an unfamiliar face. Ask for identification and call someone to verify who they say they are.
Door-to-door salesmen are not let into your home. They are asked to come back when a friend or family member will be with you.
Valuables that may be easily stolen are kept out of sight.
Telephone and television solicitations are not accepted. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”
Household maintenance (painting, roofing etc) is scheduled with a reputable company. Have a friend or family member assist you.
Electrical appliances and cords are clean, in good condition and not exposed to liquids.
An adequate number of outlets are located in each room where needed. There are no “octopus” outlets with several plugs being used.
Electrical outlets are grounded.
Lighting throughout the house is adequate.
Burned out lights are replaced.

Stairways and halls are well lit
Night-lights are used in the bathroom, halls, and passageways
A flashlight with good batteries or a lamp is within easy reach of your bed
Throw rugs are removed or have a non-skid backing and are not placed in high traffic areas.
All clutter is cleared from the house, especially in pathways. Electrical and telephone cords are placed along walls-not under rugs and away from traffic areas and do not cross pathways
There are no step stools without high handrails
Handrails are used on stairs and securely fastened
Grab bars are installed by the shower, tub or toilet
Shower stools or non-skid strips are attached to the bottom of the tub
Elevated toilet seats and stools are used if needed
Spills are cleaned up immediately
Outside walks are kept clear of snow and ice in the winter
Outside steps and entrances are well lit
You are aware of any medications being taken which may cause dizziness or unsteadiness
Alcoholic beverages are limited to no more than two per day
When in a seated or lying down position, stand up slowly
Steps are in good condition and are free from objects
Steps have non-skid strips and carpeting is securely fastened and is free from holes and fraying
Light switches are located at the top and bottom of stairways and at both ends of long halls
Doors do not swing out over stair steps
Clearance in the stairway provides adequate head room