 |
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. |
|
|
| |
|
