Fall Prevention Checklist

If you are searching for “fall prevention checklist” or “home safety“, this list will help you secure your floors, stairways, bedroom, bathroom and kitchen areas.

Floors

1. Keep paths free of any furniture in each room of the house.
2. Secure all throw rugs with double-sided tape or nonslip backing.
3. Make sure there are no other objects, such as papers, boxes, shoes or blankets on the floors.
4. Keep all wires securely taped or coiled next to walls.

Kitchen

1. Keep most frequently used items on the lower shelves.
2. Have a sturdy step stool in the kitchen, if needed.

Bedrooms

1. Tub and/or shower floors should have nonstick rubber mats.
2. Have grab bars to use for getting in and out of the tub.
3. Grab bars can be placed around the toilet, as well.

Bathrooms

1. Light(s) should be near the bed within reach.
2. Light the path from the bed to the bathroom well with nightlights.

Stairs

1. Remove any loose objects from the stairs/steps.
2. Fix any broken or uneven steps.
3. Make sure there is no loose or torn carpeting in the area.
4. Have sufficient lighting above the stairways.
5. Make sure there is a light switch at the bottom and top of the staircase.
6. Have handrails on both sides, making sure they are not loose or broken.
7. Handrails should run the full length of the stairway.

Home Safety Tips

• Try to do exercises each and every day to increase your strength and improve balance. These exercises will likely help you feel healthier and improve your confidence at the same time.
• Have your eyes checked at least once a year by a doctor. Update/upgrade your glasses, if necessary.
• Try to wear shoes both inside and outside the home. If you don’t go barefoot or wear slippers, you increase your odds of not falling.
• Always look at the lighting in and around your home and consider upgrades. Florescent bulbs are very bright and they cost less than other bulbs.
• Keep all emergency contact information near each phone.
• Put a phone near the floor or keep your cell phone nearby at all times in case of any accidents.

Source: https://uvahealth.com/sites/default/files/2018-08/Fall-Prevention-Checklist.pdf