Home Safety

Keep telephone and emergency numbers in reach, especially when alone. Keep necessary items close by to avoid reaching and stooping.

If you use a wheelchair, be sure to lock the brakes before getting up and sitting down. If your balance is not steady, have someone help you when transferring.

Keep walker/cane within reach. Do not attempt to walk without them, and do not walk alone if your balance is unsteady.

Use the devices and instructions for moving as given by your therapist or nurse.

Falls are a major cause of injury in the home. Make your home safer by doing the following:

• Light up stairways. Use handrails on stairways at all times.
• Keep floors and stairways free of clutter. Remove throw rugs--they can trip you.
• Secure electrical cords behind furniture.
• Choose proper attire: wear appropriate footwear as advised by your nurse or therapist.
• Avoid excessively long clothing.
• Use grab bars and non-skid mats in the shower

Other fall precautions

• Rise slowly when getting out of bed or chair.
• Place nightlights in bedroom, bathroom and hallways.
• Do not climb on stools, ladders or furniture.
• Walk carefully, look ahead.
• Avoid leaning on unstable objects, i.e.; rolling objects, towel racks, or soap dish on shower wall.
• Do not walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
• Perform exercises as directed by nurse or therapist to strengthen muscles and keep joints flexible.