Maintain Your Safety & Independence
There are things you can do to make living at home safer for you. Taking steps to make your home safer can go a long way in helping you maintain your independence and remain at home.
Home Safety Tips
- There are many aids that can prevent falls when getting in and out of the bathtub/shower or getting on and off the toilet.
- Did you know that with home safety equipment, you can sit down in the shower or stand up in the tub without a remodel?
- There are multiple styles of grab bars that can help you stay balanced when getting in and out of the tub.
- Assist bars can help prevent falls in the night and offer support when getting out of bed in the morning.
- A commode can be placed next to the bed to eliminate trips to the bathroom.
- Keep a lamp, telephone, and flashlight near your bed.
- Use a bed that is easy to get in and out of.
- Arrange your closet so things are easy to reach.
- Install a nightlight along the route between your bedroom and the bathroom.
- Keep the most frequently used items at waist level.
- If you must use a stool to reach high, use one with a bar to hold on to.
- Never use a chair as a stool or use a stool with wheels.
- Keep clutter off the floor and remove throw rugs.
- Make sure there is adequate lighting throughout the home.
- Be attentive to slippery surfaces.
- Wear shoes with rubber soles and heels to help increase balance and stability.
- Use canes or walkers to help maintain balance.
- Make sure mobility aids are fit to your height and weight.
- Utilize home safety and adaptive equipment.
- Keep all assistive devices in good repair.
- Use a reacher or grabber for hard-to-reach items.
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
- Don’t overload yourself when carrying items.
- Have a phone within reach at all times.
- Consider a medical alert system in case of an unexpected fall or emergency.
- Complete a home safety assessment.
Creating a safer come environment for you or your loved one is an important part of home health care. Download our home safety assessment checklist.