Preventing Falls Checklist

Rooms and Areas to Check for Preventing Falls at Home

FLOORS

  • Move furniture so that your path through a room is clear.
  • Remove throw rugs on floors. Or use double-sided tape or a nonslip backing so the rugs won’t slip.
  • Pick up papers books, shoes, boxes or other things that are on the floor. Always keep objects off the floor.
  • Coil or tape wires (such as extension cords or lamp or phone cords) next to the wall so you can’t trip over them. If you need another power outlet, have an electrician install one.

KITCHEN

  • Move items in your cabinets so that the things you use a lot are on the lower shelves (about waist level).
  • If you must use a step stool, get one with a bar to hold on to. Never use a chair as a step stool.

BATHROOM

  • Put a nonslip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower.
  • Have a carpenter install grab bars inside the tub and next to the toilet.

BEDROOMS

  • Place a lamp close to the bed where it’s easy to reach.
  • Put in a night-light so you can see where you’re walking. Some night-lights go on by themselves after dark. You might also turn on an overhead light in the halfway or bath­room before you go to bed.

STAIRS AND STEPS

  • Pick up papers, shoes, books, or other things on stairs. Always keep objects off stairs.
  • Fix loose, broken, or uneven steps.
  • Make sure you have plenty of light in stairways. Have an electrician put in an over­head light at the top and oottom of the stairs. You can get light switches that glow.
  • If you have burned-out light bulbs in the stairway, have a friend or family member change them.
  • Make sure that the carpet is firmly attached to every step. Or you can remove the carpet and attach nonslip rubber treads to the stairs.
  • Fix loose handrails or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and span the full length of the stairs.
© 2010, Healthwise, Incorporated. Reprinted by TPMG, Inc. with permission from Healthwise. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for use of this information. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor.
011061-239 (Revised 2-11)

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