Preventing falls is crucial, especially as we age, since falls can lead to serious injuries. Making modifications to your home can create a safer environment and reduce the risk of falls. Here are some practical tips for home modifications to help prevent falls:
1. Improve Lighting
- Install brighter lights in hallways, staircases, bathrooms and entryways to improve visibility.
- Use motion sensor lights or night lights to illuminate areas at night, especially in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways.
- Ensure adequate lighting at both the top and bottom of staircases.
2. Remove Tripping Hazards
- Clear clutter from floors, especially in walkways and high-traffic areas.
- Secure loose rugs with non-slip pads or remove them altogether, as they can be a tripping hazard.
- Keep electrical cords and other items out of walking paths.
3. Install Grab Bars and Handrails
- Install grab bars near toilets and inside and outside the bathtub or shower for stability.
- Ensure sturdy handrails are on both sides of staircases and hallways.
- Place handrails along any steps leading outside your home or in garages.
4. Modify the Bathroom
- Use a non-slip mat or stickers in the bathtub or shower to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.
- Consider installing a walk-in shower or bathtub for easier access.
- Use a shower chair and a hand-held showerhead to make bathing safer.
- Raise the height of the toilet seat with a raised toilet seat or install grab bars to make sitting and standing easier.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
This is a group exercise class for people with arthritis who want to learn safe ways to stay active, reduce pain and move more easily. This class is a community-based, low impact, recreational exercise program. You’ll:
- Practice stretching, breathing, and balance
- Control body pain
- Learn techniques for boosting energy and mood
- Learn ways to keep from falling when out in your community
- Increase confidence about staying active and managing arthritis
December 18, 2024 – February 24, 2025
Days: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
Time: 1:45-2:45 p.m.
Location: The Legends of Woodbury (map)
Class Leader: Brynne Gadbury
Provider: Nygard Fitness, LLC