Preventing Falls.
If you have difficulty with walking or balance, or have fallen in the past six months, talk to your healthcare provider about having a special falls risk assessment.
Ask your provider if you would benefit from a home exercise program to prevent falls or some physical therapy.
Do not rush to answer the phone. Many people fall trying to answer the phone. Either carry a cordless or cell phone or let an answering machine pick up. You can call folks back if you need to when you are able.
When walking on smooth or slippery floors, wear non-slip footwear, such as slippers with rubber/no-slip bottoms or flat, thin-soled shoes that fit well.
If you have a cane or a walker, always use it instead of holding onto walls and furniture. It is easy to “be comfortable” at home but being safe is just as important.
Consider a power scooter for when you go out of the house to be sure you don’t get tired of walking far distances and always have a place to rest if you need to.
Safety Proof Your Home.
Make sure all hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of objects such as books, shoes, and other clutter.
Use rails and banisters when going up and down the stairs. Never place decorative rugs at the bottom or top of stairs.
Pick up all area rugs. They are easy to trip or slip on.
Consider ramps. stair lifts and lift chairs to give you accessibility to all areas of your home.
Bathroom Safety.
Have grab bars installed in the shower and near the toilet to make getting around easier and safer.
Use rubber mats in the bathtub to prevent slipping.
Treat your bathroom floors with a non-slip treatment.
If you are having a hard time getting in and out of your tub, or on and off the toilet, ask your mobility concierge for a special tub chair or bench or raised toilet seat. As you age in place, there are also portable showers you could use as well as full bathroom modification.
Be Mindful of Financial Abuse & Scams.
Talk over offers made by telephone salespeople with a friend or family member.
Do not share your personal information, such as social security number, credit card, bank information, or account passwords, with people you do not know who contact you.
Always ask for written information about any offers, prizes, or charities and wait to respond until you have reviewed the information thoroughly.
Do not let yourself be pressured into making purchases, signing contracts, or making donations. Wait and discuss the plans with trusted family member or friend.
Keep Emergency Numbers Handy.
911
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Family member or friend to call in case of emergency.
Healthcare provider’s office.
Thinking about making modifications to your home?
If you are looking to install a portable shower, walk-in shower, wheelchair accessible shower, or grab bars, we are here to help. Call today to speak to a Mobility Concierge and schedule your complimentary in-home assessment.