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.
Our Resources
Our home medical equipment stores can supply you with the products you need to increase mobility, complete daily tasks more easily, maintain independence, and live safely at home. Find how we can help.
Be connected to help when you need it the most. Learn more about VoiceCare, our personal emergency response system.
Having trouble shopping for food or preparing meals? Learn how Meals On Wheels can provide delicious, nutritious meals for residents of Madison, Middleton, and Monona.