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Tips to Reduce the Risks of Falling LIGHTING Turn lights on before entering a room
- Light switches should be at the entrance to every room
- If switches are not located at the entrance, consider installing them there Lighting should not cause a glare, which can worsen visibility


Tip: Reduce glare by using frosted bulbs, shades on lighting fixtures, or partially closing window Replace burned-out bulbs immediately Use night lights to improve visibility in hallways, bathrooms and bedrooms In case of outages, (a) Install power-failure lights in electrical outlets and near stairs and (b) Keep working flashlights
and extra batteries on hand Make sure there is adequate lighting outside the entrance to your home
- Consider installing motion-sensitive lighting if you dont already have it

WALKWAYS Check all carpets, rugs and mats
- Make sure they lie flat
- Make sure carpets are securely fastened to the floor
- Avoid throw rugs, or use non-skid backing on them and replace as needed Mark sudden changes in surfaces such as stairs, curbs or ramps



Tip: Use brightly colored tape or paint Keep walkways clear of clutter, including phone and electrical cords Use established walkways rather than shortcuts Be careful around children and pets Clean up spills immediately

Because 75% of falls occur at home, its important to take preventative steps which can reduce the risk of
falling. Compromised health and even death are sometimes the results of falls for people seventy and older.
Assisted living and life-care communities recognize the signicance and increase in fall risk in the elder
population and often offer classes in fall prevention to their residents. In ones own home, it is just as
important to be aware of the benets that a few modications, along with common sense, can make in
staying fall-free.
Presented by the publishers of Gilbert Guide
For more information about local long-term care options visit www.GilbertGuide.com BATHROOM Install grab bars in the bathtub/shower if you dont already have them

- Both sides is idealand check them periodically to test for stability Use non-slip strips or mats in bathtub/shower and replace as needed Install grab bars, handrails or a raised toilet seat with arms if you have difficulty getting on or off the toilet Use a bath bench if balance is an issue for you Use a flexible, handheld shower for greater comfort and convenience

STAIRS Install handrails on both sides of outside and inside stairs

- Check periodically to make sure they are not loose Mark the top and bottom of stairs (or all stairs if they are not easily distinguishable) with brightly colored tape or paint

FOOTWEAR AND ASSISTIVE DEVICES Wear footwear with soles and heels that provide good support and traction
- Make sure they fit well Avoid walking in socks, smooth-soled shoes or slippers on stairs, hardwood or waxed surfaces



Tip: Consider wearing supportive footwear all the time (indoors and outdoors) Dont hold onto furniture as you walk, as it will increase your risk of fallinginstead, use a cane or walker to help
maintain your balance



Tip: Your doctor or physical therapist can teach you to use them properly Be sure that any assistive device you use (walker or cane) is properly matched to your height

HAZARDOUS SURFACES Be cautious on icy, wet and debris-covered surfaces When exiting a vehicle, test the ground for wetness or iciness before standing and walking Be careful on smooth indoor surfaces such as tile, marble, hardwood and linoleum Be careful stepping up or down on curbs

PREVENTATIVE HEALTH MEASURES Test your vision and hearing at least annually and have it corrected as needed Learn what side effects your medications may have, and whether they could affect your balance or coordination Limit or eliminate your alcohol intake Advise your doctor about any falls you have taken Begin a dialogue with your doctor, if you havent already, to monitor your ambulation and agility during routine checkups

- Order a complete evaluation if you feel your movement or balance has been compromised Take up a light exercise, as recommended or approved by your doctor, which will contribute to your overall balance
and cardiovascular health

Presented by the publishers of Gilbert Guide
For more information about local long-term care options visit www.GilbertGuide.com GENERAL SAFETY TIPS Be alert to potential hazards when you are in an unfamiliar environment Be cautious when entering and exiting elevators Dont rush to answer the phone or door



Tip: Let the phone ringif you are concerned about missing a call, invest in an answering machine if
you dont have one already Take your time crossing the street Take time to regain your balance when getting up, especially after eating or lying down If you experience dizziness from a sudden change in position, increase your blood flow by clenching hands and
wiggling toes (if standing) or moving arms and legs (if sitting) Dont use a chair to get at hard-to-reach itemsuse a sturdy stool or step ladder


Tip: Store frequently used items around waist level to avoid bending and reaching When carrying bulky items, make sure they dont obstruct your view

- Order a complete evaluation if you feel your movement or balance has been compromised Sign up for a fall prevention class at your community senior center or local hospital

Presented by the publishers of Gilbert Guide
For more information about local long-term care options visit www.GilbertGuide.com