AVOIDING FALLS

A majority of accidental falls are not job-related or involve situations of extreme danger.  they occur in homes during everyday activities.

1 out of 3 people aged 65 and older fall each year.  Of those who fall, only half are able to return home to live independently.  Half of all falls could have been prevented.

Look for ways to reduce potentially hazardous situations.  There are simple steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

Floors and Stairs

Install at least one long handrail on a staircase.  Make sure it has a comfortable grip.  Tighten any loose fixtures.

Secure carpet or stair runners that are not fastened down.

Wear well-fitted shoes or slippers with non-slip soles.

Paint steps with a rough textured paint or use non-slip strips.

Avoid deep pile, dark-colored, or patterned carpeting that can make it difficult to see the step's edges clearly.

Avoid sharp changes in flooring levels such as from high carpet to low vinyl.

10 Bathroom Tips

1.  Install a grip bar by the tub, shower stall, and above the sink and toilet.

2.  Set water heater below 120° F.  A burn can startle the victim and cause

a fall.

3.  Apply textured vinyl safety strips to the tub, shower, or tile floors, and use nonslip mats.

4.  Avoid scatter rugs!

5.  Take down or tape, cut-to-fit carpet or rubber backed rugs.

6.  Use a long-handled scrubber for better balance when bending over.

7.  Use nonslip bath and shower chairs.

8.  Watch out for slick soap or water spills.

9.  Never brace yourself on towel bar.

10. Have a cordless telephone nearby for emergencies.

Protect Yourself - Indoors and Outdoors

Use the highest allowable wattage bulbs in all light fixtures and lamps.

Never walk into a dark room; all rooms should have a light switch or lamp by the door.

Install night lights that lead from the bedroom to the bathroom.

Have light switches at each end of stairs.

Be able to reach a light switch or lamp from bed or a favorite chair.  Have a flashlight nearby.

Secure scatter rugs with double-sided tape or tacks, especially in the kitchen and bath.

Run electrical cords against walls, never under rugs or across doorways.

Only carry what you can safely handle.

In bedrooms, eliminate scattered clothing, shoes, and blankets or untucked sheets.

Wipe up spills right away.  Use detergent to cut greasy residue.

Use a sturdy step stool with handrails to reach high cabinets.  Long tongs help reach high items.

Keep walkways clear of toys, magazines, newspapers, and yard and garden equipment.

Do not rearrange furniture; it will keep familiar patterns in place.

Always wear your glasses.

Use a cane with a rubber tip if balance is a problem.

Avoid going out after a snow or ice storm.  If you must, wear high-traction shoes.

Physical Change

Mature Americans represent the fastest growing segment of our society today.  In the near future, almost half of this country's population will be over fifty.

As we age, our bodies change.  This physical change is common, but as a result our bodies may become unsteady from physical conditions, medicines, illnesses, and/or low blood sugar.  To help avoid mishaps:

Always take prescription drugs according to the instructions.  Medicines such as antihistamines, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers can cause dizziness.

Have regular eye check-ups.  Impaired sight can lead to unsteady walking.

Monitor blood pressure.  Report any dizziness to your doctor immediately.

Get up slowly after eating, resting, or lying down to avoid falls.

Exercise to build strength and muscle tone and to keep joints, tendons, and ligaments more flexible.

Impaired Mobility

If you are having difficulty walking or moving around, consult a physician for an evaluation to determine the cause and possible treatment.  Physical therapists and rehabilitation centers (Sports Medicine Centers) are trained to help people of all ages with different impairments, to regain mobility that has been compromised by illness, accident, injury, or simply the aging process.