Falls can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. Please follow these tips to stay safe.
You might be at a greater risk of falling if you:
- Have had a recent fall
- Have had a recent surgery or procedure
- Have medical conditions, such as low blood pressure or low blood sugar
- Have trouble seeing
- Use a device to help you walk, such as a walker, crutches, or a cane
Tips to prevent you from falling
- Ask your doctor or nurse about possible side effects of your medicines.
- Some medicines can make you dizzy, sleepy, weak, or shaky.
- Keep your medicine in a place with good lighting.
- Sit for two to three minutes before standing.
- Always rise slowly to prevent dizziness.
- Exercise to improve your strength, balance, and coordination.
- Wear non-skid, low-heeled walking shoes, and tie the shoelaces.
- Do not wear flip flops; they can cause falls.
- Do not bend over to put your shoes on; use a long-handled shoehorn.
- Walk on hard, level surfaces.
- Hold on to a handrail when walking up and down stairs.
- Use proper techniques when walking up and down stairs with a walker, crutches, or cane.
- Walk only in well-lit areas.
Tips to prevent you from falling in your home
- Put a lamp and flashlight near your bed, so you have light if you get up during the night.
- Sleep on a bed that is easy to get in and out of.
- Keep clutter off your floors.
- Remove throw rugs or loose area rugs.
- Arrange furniture so you have a clear path between rooms.
- Clean up floor spills right away.
- Use a rubber mat or non-skid adhesive strips in the tub.
- Install a raised toilet seat or a seat with armrests.
Last reviewed:
May 2018