Preventing Falls: Care Instructions

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Injuries and health problems such as trouble walking or poor eyesight can increase your risk of falling. So can some medicines. But there are things you can do to help prevent falls. You can exercise to get stronger. You can also arrange your home to make it safer.

Talk to your doctor about the medicines you take. Ask if any of them increase the risk of falls and whether they can be changed or stopped.

Try to exercise regularly. It can help improve your strength and balance. This can help lower your risk of falling.

Practice fall safety and prevention.

  • Wear low-heeled shoes that fit well and give your feet good support. Talk to your doctor if you have foot problems that make this hard.
  • Carry a cellphone or wear a medical alert device that you can use to call for help.
  • Use stepladders instead of chairs to reach high objects. Don't climb if you're at risk for falls. Ask for help, if needed.
  • Wear the correct eyeglasses, if you need them.

Make your home safer.

  • Remove rugs, cords, clutter, and furniture from walkways.
  • Keep your house well lit. Use night-lights in hallways and bathrooms.
  • Install and use sturdy handrails on stairways.
  • Wear nonskid footwear, even inside. Don't walk barefoot or in socks without shoes.

Be safe outside.

  • Use handrails, curb cuts, and ramps whenever possible.
  • Keep your hands free by using a shoulder bag or backpack.
  • Try to walk in well-lit areas. Watch out for uneven ground, changes in pavement, and debris.
  • Be careful in the winter. Walk on the grass or gravel when sidewalks are slippery. Use de-icer on steps and walkways. Add non-slip devices to shoes.

Put grab bars and nonskid mats in your shower or tub and near the toilet. Try to use a shower chair or bath bench when bathing.

Get into a tub or shower by putting in your weaker leg first. Get out with your strong side first. Have a phone or medical alert device in the bathroom with you.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter G117 in the search box to learn more about "Preventing Falls: Care Instructions".

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.