To my Faithful Readers during the past two decades, due in large part to my personal family problems and to my fairly recent traumatic multi broken femur fall, I now conclude the writing of my last H & W Column. At this time, however, I do find it pertinent to advise all of you about some very important tips (from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center) on how to avoid these damaging and unnecessary falls. The falls’ high amounts of inconveniences can lead to extreme interruptions in your life, tremendous pain, and loss of independence. The necessary requirement for a huge amount of physical therapy (in my case, 4 months so far) and the need for a highly supportive partner (my husband) or caregiver to become your “second leg” while the break heals – all become vital factors in keeping your optimism strong during the recovery process. The below then are Ohio State’s basic tips to use in your home to help prevent dangerous falls there:
THROUGHOUT THE HOME
1. Remove throw rugs so you do not trip on them.
2. Replace or remove carpet that is torn or has turned-up edges. Avoid (where it can be done) thick or rubberized carpet where shoes may catch on their edges and cause you to stumble or fall.
3. Move furniture or other things that may block pathways.
4. Be sure you have good lighting throughout your home.
5. Use night lights or leave some lights on in the house to help you see at night or when you come home in the evening.
6. Use switches that glow in the dark, so they can be seen more easily. Keep electrical cords and small things out of your path (especially true when traveling from your bed for those night visits to your bathroom where many deadly falls do occur).
7. Use your cane or walker (if necessary) rather than using furniture to give support when walking.
STAIRS
1. Mount sturdy handrails to help with going up and down stairs. They should extend beyond the top and bottom stair. These are also very helpful for usage in the small amounts of stairs found in the main house exit from the laundry room to the indoor garage room entrance.
2. Improve the visibility on your stairs. Have good lighting on the stairs. Non-skid surfaces can be applied to wood stairs to prevent sliding.
3. Where a large staircase can be found, paint a bright colored line on the edge of each step so they are more easily seen, especially if you have poor vision.
IN THE BATHROOM
1. Place non-skid decals or a mat in the tub or shower.
2. Install grab bars around the toilet and in the shower or bathtub. Towel bars are meant to hold towels, and they will break if you use them as grab bars.
3. Use a tub seat and an elevated toilet seat.
4. Leave the bathroom door unlocked so it can be opened if you do fall.
IN THE BEDROOM
1. Avoid wearing long nightgowns or robes. These can cause you to trip.
2. Avoid wearing loose shoes that cause you to scuff or shuffle your feet as you walk. Wear shoes or slippers that fit well and stay securely on your feet.
IN THE KITCHEN
1. Have commonly used items at counter level or within easy reach.
2. Do not climb or reach to high shelves.
3. If you use a step stool, use a stable step stool with a handrail.
OTHER TIPS
1. Be careful that you do not trip over your pet. Be aware of where your pet is when you are moving around.
2. Use caution when sitting down. Before sitting down on a chair, make sure the backs of your legs are touching the seat of the chair behind you.
3. Keep a telephone close by or consider carrying a portable phone.
4. ***Take your time. Get in the habit of moving at speeds that are safe for your energy level and ability. Do not rush to answer the phone or door.
5. Ask for help when getting up from bed, a chair or the toilet if you feel at all shaky, weak, dizzy or lightheaded.
