Fall Risk Reduction Checklist
Caregivers are the best line of defense for our loved ones. Here are two key checklists to help you keep your loved one safe. Ask your Navigator if you need help following any of the recommendations below.
Falls Prevention Checklist: Home Safety
Take a tour of your loved one’s home or any area where they spend time. As you move through the area, review this list carefully and see how you can reduce the fall or trip hazards. Keep working on the list until each item is checked!
If your loved one is going to be a visitor or spend time in someone else’s home, use this list again to ensure their safety in the new locale.
Remove things you can trip over (like papers, books, clothes, shoes, and cords/wires) from stairs and places where you walk.
Remove throw rugs that are NOT well secured. If you keep a throw rug, use double-sided tape or non-slip backing to eliminate ALL movements along the edges and in the middle. Secure all edges well, especially those in the walking path.
Light hallways and stairways used after dusk; avoid motion sensors -- use permanent lights in hallways and stairways.
Be sure that handrails are attached well on both sides of all stairways.
Move items out of reach to shelves and cabinets within arm’s length. Not too high and not too low. Consider the use of a “grabber” tool for lightweight items that are too high or low.
If they must use a step stool; use step stools that are steady and have railings to hold onto. Try to eliminate this need.
Put a non-slip rubber mat in the bathtub or on the shower floor.
Have grab bars/rails installed securely next to your toilet and tub or shower.
Keep the dishwasher door closed unless loading/unloading.
If there is glare from sunlight at certain times of day, use light-weight curtains or shades to reduce glare.
Wear shoes with backs both inside and outside the house. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers without backs.
Consider using a personal emergency response system with FALL DETECTION. These systems alert 911 in case of fall or other need. This is CRITICALLY important for loved ones who live alone and/or have any cognitive impairment.
Falls Prevention Checklist: Bedroom Safety
Since we all spend considerable time in the Bedroom, make this room a priority! The National Council on Aging has outlined a comprehensive checklist and other excellent resources to help family caregivers learn best practices for care support of a loved one.
Take it slow: Avoid jumping up and getting out of bed quickly. Take a minute in a seated position on the side of the bed before standing up. Then slowly stand up and be sure you feel steady before moving away from the bed.
Clear the way: Remove clutter, secure loose rugs, and clean up spills immediately and thoroughly.
Improve lighting: Use nightlights, bright non-glare bulbs, and/or motion-activated lights.
Keep essentials nearby: Put your phone, lamp, glasses, and other frequently used items within easy reach.
Wear safe footwear: Choose non-slip footwear and avoid walking in socks on smooth floors.
Consider the following aids for physical support:
Weak upper body? Use bed assist bar, handles, or transfer poles.
Poor balance? Sit on a chair while getting dressed.