Fall Prevention Tips

Falls are not a natural occurrence. You can prevent falls.

Make Your Home Safe

A man is walking outside next to his elderly father, who is using a walker.Stairs

  • Provide enough light to see steps clearly
  • Keep stairs free from clutter
  • Cover stairs with tight carpet or nonslip treads.
  • Install handrails on one or both sides.
  • Never carry packages that obstruct your view.

Bathroom

  • Use a night-light.
  • Install grab bars in the shower and toilet areas.
  • Install a raised toilet seat.
  • Place nonskid strips on the shower floor.
  • Leave the bathroom door unlocked.
  • Remove throw rugs.

Living area

  • Keep floors clean and free of clutter.
  • Arrange furniture to provide an open path.
  • Remove low tables and footrests to avoid tripping.
  • Keep cords out of pathways.
  • Don’t stand on chairs or unstable ladders.
  • Don’t sit on chairs or sofas that are too low.
  • Keep a portable phone with you.
  • Always wear proper footwear.
  • Remove throw rugs.

Kitchen

  • Avoid climbing and reaching high shelves.
  • Use a stable step stool with handrails.
  • Store frequently used items on easy-to-reach shelves.
  • Clean up spills as soon as they happen.
  • Remove throw rugs and replace torn carpet.
  • Post emergency phone numbers near the telephone.
  • Remove throw rugs. 

Bedroom

  • Remove throw rugs, cords and other clutter.
  • Install a bedroom night-light.
  • Use entry point light switches to turn on lights.
  • Keep a phone by your bedside.
  • Take your time. Get up slowly to avoid dizziness.

Footwear

  • Wear low-heeled shoes with nonskid soles.
  • Avoid thick or heavy soles on shoes.
  • Wear proper fitting shoes with laces.
  • Avoid slippers and flip flops.

Outdoors

  • Adjust eyes to lighting changes.
  • Stop at curbs and check height before stepping up or down.
  • Do one thing at a time.

Positive prevention

  • Eliminate the hazards in the house.
  • Increase your physical activity. Pick an activity you enjoy.
  • Improve your strength and flexibility.
  • See your eye doctor for vision problems.
  • Maintain good nutrition and fluid intake.
  • Get an annual physical exam.
  • Know your medications and their side effects.

Consult your physician or the Outpatient Rehabilitation Department if you frequently experience dizziness, loss of balance or falls: (813) 443-8028.