FALLS
GENERAL
PREVENTION MEASURES
(Things one can
do to help seniors)
- Install good lighting in all
areas, including stairways.
- Install night-lights and /or
remote control switches.
- Install sturdy railings on
stairways, indoors and out.
- Install grab bars in bathrooms.
- Avoid or tack down small rugs.
Install wall-to-wall carpeting wherever possible.
- Keep furniture and wastebaskets
out of the way.
- Provide chairs and sofas with high
armrests, which make it easier to sit down and
get up.
- Provide sturdy stools or ladders,
preferably with handrails.
PERSONAL
PREVENTION MEASURES
(Actions seniors
can take themselves)
- Test and correct vision.
- Test and correct hearing.
- Wear supportive, non-skid
low-heeled shoes.
- Stand up slowly from a sitting or
lying position.
- Use a cane or walker to correct
poor balance.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Avoid medications that impair
thinking, such as sleeping pills, tranquilizers
and some antihistamines.
- Avoid carrying large items that
block your view of the floor in front of you.
- Exercise regularly to improve
strength, muscle tone and flexibility.
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MOTOR
VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
PERSONAL
PREVENTION MEASURES
(Actions seniors
can take themselves)
- Drive only in daylight and on
familiar roads.
- Always wear a seat belt when in a
car.
- Use public transportation whenever
possible.
- Cross streets only at crosswalks
and with the green light or walk light.
BURNS
AND FIRES
GENERAL
PREVENTION MEASURES
(Things one can
do to help seniors)
- Keep smoke detectors in working
order. Change batteries every year.
- Set hot water heater at or below
120 degrees F.
- Avoid frayed electric cords and
overloaded outlets.
- Keep space heaters away from
curtains, rugs, and furniture.
PERSONAL
PREVENTION MEASURES
(Actions seniors
can take themselves)
- Never smoke in bed, if at all.
- Don’t allow smoking in your
home.
- Heat/cook food in microwave rather
than stove whenever possible.
- Avoid wearing clothing with long,
loose sleeves when cooking on a stove.
- Plan how to get out quickly in case of fire - use locks that
you can open quickly.
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