Check for Safety: Help Prevent Falls at Home
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Emergency departments treat more than 2.8 million fall-related injuries annually.
Many falls are preventable. More than 75% of falls take place inside or near the home. There are some simple changes you can make to help reduce your risk of falling.
Front Door
- Fix cracked, uneven, and wobbly steps leading to your front door.
- Make sure the entryway is well-lit and consider installing motion sensor lights.
- Consider installing a grab bar by the front door to provide balance while stepping up to the door or putting your key in.
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Kitchen
- Keep items you use often on the lower shelves (about waist level).
- If you must use a step stool, get one with a bar to hold on to. Never stand on a chair.
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Bedroom
- Place a lamp close to the bed within easy reach
- Add a nightlight to light the path from the bed to the bathroom.
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Bathroom
- Place a non-slip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of your tub or shower.
- Install grab bars next to and inside the tub and next to the toilet.
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Floors
- Make sure furniture is arranged to allow for a clear path to walk.
- Remove throw rugs or secure with double-sided tape or a non-slip backing.
- Teach everyone to keep objects like papers, shoes, and books off the floor.
- Keep electrical cords taped along the wall and out of the way.
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Stairs
- Install handrails on both sides of steps.
- Make sure stairs are well-lit.
- Never leave objects such as papers, shoes or books on stairs.
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Click here to download a falls prevention brochure with additional safety tips from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).