Fall Prevention
Believe it or not, your home may be filled with fall hazards, so take a look around every room. There are easy, preventative measures you can take to prevent falls and eliminate hazards. Read our tips below to keep your home and family safe.
Fall Prevention in the Bedroom
- Place a lamp and telephone close to your bed within easy reach in case of emergency.
- Sleep on a bed that is easy to get in and out of.
- Arrange clothes in your closet so they are easy to reach.
- Put in a night-light so you can see where you’re walking after dark.
Fall Prevention in Living Areas
- Arrange furniture so you have clear pathways.
- Remove area or throw rugs or use non-slip backing tape so the rugs will not slip.
- Keep electrical and telephone cords out of walkways.
- Do not sit on a chair or sofa that is too low and makes it difficult for you to stand up.
- Install light switches at the entrances to each room so you do not have to walk into a dark room to turn on a light.
- Remove papers, boxes, books, clothes, shoes and all clutter from walking pathways.
Fall Prevention in the Bathroom
- Place a slip-resistant rug adjacent to the bathtub for safe exit and entry.
- Use a nonslip rubber mat or non-skid adhesive textured strips on the floor of your tub or shower.
- Install grab bars for support inside the tub and next to the toilet.
- Replace glass shower enclosures with non-shattering material.
Fall Prevention in the Kitchen
- Never stand on chairs or boxes to reach upper cabinets or shelves. If you must use a step stool, use one with a handle you can hold onto.
- Store food, dishes and cooking equipment within easy reach. Move items on high shelves to cabinets, lower shelves or counter tops.
- Immediately clean up any liquids or food spilled on the floor.
Fall Prevention on Stairs
- Always keep all objects off of the stairs.
- Fix any loose, uneven or broken steps.
- Provide enough light to see each stair as well as the top and bottom landings.
- Make sure all carpeting is firmly attached to every step or remove the carpet and attach non-slip rubber treads.
- Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and fix them if they become loose.
Following these tips for fall prevention will help keep you and your loved ones safe at home. If you have any questions, please give Loudoun Sports Therapy Center a call at 703-450-4300 to speak with our expert physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.
Don’t let pain limit you…We care. We Listen. We get RESULTS!