Prevent Falls at Home

As you age, falls often occur in your home because of hazards that are easily overlooked but important to fix.

Create a Trip-free Home

• Keep floors and pathways clear of furniture, cords and clutter.
• Use non-slip mats or rugs.
• Keep a cordless phone or cellular phone nearby, so you don’t have to rush to answer a call.
• Watch out for items that could cause you to trip, such as toys, laundry and even your pets!
• Be cautious when moving between different flooring surfaces in your home.

Bathroom Safety

• Install safety grab bars by your shower, tub and toilet.
• Have your toilet paper roll within reach.
• Use non-slip mats inside and outside the bathtub and shower.
• Keep floors dry.
• Keep a nightlight on in the bathroom.

Steady On the Stairs

• Use handrails when walking up and down stairs.
• Mark the edge of stairs with coloured paint or tread.
• Keep stairs well lit and install light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs.
• Keep stairs free of clutter.
• If possible, install handrails on both sides of the stairs.

Light Your Way

• Give your eyes time to adjust to changes in light.
• Keep all areas well-lit.
• Use nightlights and motion sensors in halls and bathrooms.
• Ensure you have a light by your bed.
• Replace burnt out lightbulbs.

Resources

FB At Home Handout

8.5×11 handout on getting around in your home.

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