CHECK IT OUT!

The Fall Prevention Project

Check it Out!

Some things you can do to reduce your risk of falling

Instructions:

Review the following questions carefully.
For best results, correct the items you have checked off.
Helpful hints to help you to reduce your risk of falling are included.
Always remember: Falls are preventable!

Health and Safety

Do you take 4 or more medications daily?

Multiple medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness and balance problems. It is important to have all of your medications reviewed at least once a year by a pharmacist or doctor.

Have you or those around you noticed a change in your hearing?

Dizziness can occur with hearing loss. Set up an appointment to have your hearing checked.

Have you or those around you noticed a change in your vision?

Seeing obstacles is the first step in avoiding a fall. Keep your glasses clean. Have your eyes examined once a year.

Have you fallen 2 or more times in the past 6 months?

Get a checkup! Falls lead to injuries. You need to find out why are are falling.

Do you wear floppy slippers or a long bathrobe?

Wear well-fitting slippers with non-skid soles. Avoid night clothing that drags on the ground. Keep robe tied.

Abilities

Do you have trouble:

Reaching overhead?

Put commonly used things on shelves that are easy to reach. If you must reach overhead, keep a sturdy stool handy.

Picking up objects from the floor?

Plan ahead. Move the object closer to something sturdy to hold on to.,

Getting in and out of the bathtub?

Consider adding grab bars to the walls or using a tub seat to assist with bathing. Non-skid tub mats and a hand held shower can also be useful.

Getting in and out of a chair?

Avoid sitting on low furniture. Chairs with arms make it easier to get up.

Walking without holding on to something?

If you feel unsteady without holding on to something, you may need a cane. Consult your doctor or health care provider.

Home

Do you have:

Throw rugs?

Throw rugs pose a tripping hazard. They should be tacked down or removed.

Stairs without rails?

Using hand rails to go up and down stairs is easier and safer. Add hand rails to all stairs, if possible.

Clutter in your walking space?

Clutter such as shoes, electrical cords and magazines is a safety hazard. Keep pathways clear.

Dark hallways or stairwells?

Good lighting can reduce the chance of falling. Consider adding night lights where overhead lighting is lacking. Add bright tape strips to the edge of each stair. Always keep a charged flashlight near your bed for emergencies. A night light in the bathroom can also make night trips to the bathroom safer.

Please note: This brochure does not include all risk factors for falls. It does, however, provide a starting point. Contact your doctor or health care provider if you have further questions.

Please include copyright information and developers' names when copying.

This brochure was developed by:
J. Foxworth, L. Giordano, K. Hammond, K. Mitchell, R. Newton, Ph.D.

Roberta Newton, Ph.D.
Department of Physical Therapy
Temple University
3307 North Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19140-5101

Voice: 215-707-4897 E-mail: rnewton@temple.edu

"In-Home Safety Check" brochure

TABLE OF CONTENTS