•  Ensure all rooms are well lit

-install night lights

-add lighting where needed…use high watt bulbs

-replace all burned-out bulbs

-install light switches near the entrance of every room

 

•  Floors

-remove all clutter on floors…keep them clear & unobstructed

-remove throw rugs

-re-position extension/electrical/telephone cords out of pathways

 

 •  Furniture

-establish clear pathways in every room

-replace couches & chairs that are too low…making it difficult to stand up

 

•  Stairs

-confirm they are well lighted & clear of clutter

-install light switches at both top and bottom of stairways

-install handrails in all stairways (on both sides)

-ensure handrails are long enough

-secure/replace loose/broken treds

-consider replacing carpeting with non-slip treds

 

•  Kitchen

-re-locate frequently used items to lower shelves or cabinets

-keep things at waist level, within easy reach

-only use a stool with a grab bar

 

•  Bathroom

-place non-slip floor mats next to tub

-use non-slip adhesive strips on tub floor

-install grab bars inside tub enclosure & next to toilet

-install taller (ADA compliant) toilet

 

•  Bedroom

-make certain a lamp is next to bed

-locate a telephone within easy reach

 

•  Clothing & Footwear

-arrange clothing in closet within easy reach

-wear properly fitted footwear

-consider non-slip soles

 

•  Health/Physician

-speak with physician to identify unique risks due to present health

-mention any history of falls

-review current prescriptions, dosages and frequencies

-confirm prescriptions are accurately labeled & easy to read

-ask about advisability/benefits of exercise

-stay active

-schedule an annual vision test

-if prescribed, make certain walker/cane is always used

-install a medical alert system for summoning emergency help if needed