Preventing falls at home

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.