Fall Prevention

Bathroom Safety

• Grab bars are on the bathroom walls, near the toilet or along the bathtub or shower
• A slip-resistant rug is next to the bathtub or shower
• A mounted or suction liquid soap dispenser is on the bathtub/shower wall
• Non-skid adhesive textured strips are on the bathtub/shower floor
• A sturdy plastic seat (shower chair) is placed in the bathtub
• There’s a raised toilet seat or one with armrests to maintain balance when getting on/off the toilet
• An extra-long mirror is over the sink so it can be used when sitting

Bedroom Safety

• Clutter is cleared from the floor to eliminate tripping hazards
• A lamp, flashlight and telephone are within easy reach near the bed
• Nightlights are placed along the path from the bedroom to the bathroom
• A raised mattress is available to assist in getting in/out of bed easily

Living Area Safety

• Furniture is arranged to create clear paths between rooms
• Pathways are clear of coffee tables, footrests and other items that make it hard to navigate
• Light switches are easily accessible at the entrance of each room
• Glow-in-the-dark switches or sound-activated lamps are available
• Loose rugs are secured with double-faced tape or slip-resistant backing
• In rooms with wall-to-wall carpeting, the carpet is secure and there are no wrinkles or raised areas
• Electric appliances and telephone cords are out of their way, but not placed under rugs
• There are no wobbly chairs or tables which can be leaned upon
• Rugs are secured on concrete, ceramic or marble floors
• There are no loose wood floorboards that need repair
• Furniture is firm, high and has armrests to assist in standing
• Cordless phones are placed throughout their home to avoid rushing to get the phone
• Helping Loved Ones Live Safely at Home

Kitchen Safety

• There are no throw rugs
• There is no liquid, grease or food spilled on the floor that needs to be cleaned up
• Food, dishes and cooking equipment are stored at an easy-to-reach, waist-high level
• A step stool with a handrail is available to reach upper cabinets
• Non-skid floor wax has been used on the floor
• A counter-top toaster oven is available to avoid leaning over or trying to reach an oven

Stairs

• Stairways are well lit
• Steps have stair treads
• Stairways have a strong handrail, preferably on both sides

Carpet

• Carpet is not patterned or deep pile
• Carpet is a solid color to show the edges of steps more clearly
• A brightly colored piece of tape is used if there is difficulty seeing the edge of the stairs