| Do you regularly check for
fall hazards in and around your home? |
|
If you answered No, here's what you can do:
- You should regularly check for hazards, including clutter,
non-slip mats that no longer stay put, and telephone or
other wires that obstruct pathways in your home.
- After spending time outside, check to make sure all garden
tools, hoses, lawn furniture and other objects have been
replaced to their storage area.
- Checklists are available to help you.
|
| Do you use throw or scatter
rugs? |
|
If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:
- Replace them with one with a non-skid backing.
- Tape rugs to the floor if needed.
- If any rugs have ripples or tears in them, repair them
or do not use them.
- You can purchase non-slip rugs at local hardware store.
|
| Do you have telephone or
electrical cords in your traffic areas of your home? |
|
If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:
- Use a cordless phone.
- Buy little clips to attach the cord along the side of
the wall.
|
| Is there a clear path from
the bedroom to the bathroom? |
|
If you answered No, here's what you can do:
- Keep all walkways clear of clutter.
- Put nightlights with sensors close to the bathroom, near
the bed and in hallways.
|
| Do you have slippery floors? |
|
If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:
- Use non-slip wax on floors.
- Wipe spills up promptly and leave something to remind
you that the floor is wet.
- Use skid-proof or non-slip mats.
|
| Do you use at least 60-watt
lighting bulb in and around your home? |
|
If you answered No, here's what you can do:
- Use non-glare bulbs that are 60 to 100 watts .
- Install a timer on lights outside your home.
|
| Is your furniture very closely
arranged so that there is not much space to move? |
|
If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:
- Rearrange your furniture to open up the space, especially
if you use a walking aid.
|
| Do you ever find yourself
"free-falling" into your furniture (chair, sofa, or
bed)? |
|
If you answered Yes, here's what you can do:
- When sitting, your knees should be the same height (level
with) as the seat of the chair (bed, sofa).
- If furniture is too low, add firm foam pads to the seat
of the chair or sofa or use sturdy bed blocks under the
legs of the furniture.
|
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