Health & Wellness
Horizon Newsletter – September
As we approach fall, lets talk about fall prevention inside your home. Sixty percent of falls happen inside the home. This is where you feel most comfort and get used to unsafely walking around. Herre are some tips to making your home safe for you!
Stairs, Hallways, and Pathways:
- Make sure handrails are fastened securely on both side of stairways. If you must carry things up and down the stairs, try to use a hand and do not block your view of stairs. Good lighting is important. Access to switches at the top and bottom of stairs and at the end of long hallways are important. Keep stairs and halls tidy and clear of objects.
Bathrooms:
- Make sure to use a non-skid mat in areas that may get wet and become a slip hazard. Good lighting is important. Use of a night light is useful as well. Hand rails inside and outside of the bathroom and near toilet are important as well.
Bedroom:
- Having a night light close to bed to help light the pathway is a good idea. Also, have a flashlight in a nightstand close to your bed for nights electric would be out. Having a telephone near your bed at night is a great way to be prepared.
Other living areas:
- Electrical wires and phone wires should be running down the walls and not in the pathway at all. Secure all carpet and rugs down firmly. Make sure lighting is adequate for you to see and move around safely. Arrange furniture to have a clear walking space. Keep items you use often close and available. If you have a pet, knowing where the pet is can also help prevent falls. Keep emergency information near your phone.
National Resource Center of Supportive Housing and Home Modifications:
(213)740-1364 Homemods@usc.edu
National Center for Injury Prevention and Control:
(888)232-6348 www.cdc.gov/injury
National Falls and Prevention Resource Center:
(571)527-3900