TIPS TO FALL-PROOF YOUR HOME Six out of every 10 falls happen at home, where we spend much of our time and tend to move around without thinking about our safety. There are many changes you can make to your home that will help you avoid falls and ensure your safety. In Stairways, Hallways, and Pathways:
• Have handrails on both sides of the stairs, and make sure they are tightly fastened. Hold the handrails when you use the stairs, going up or down. If you must carry something while you’re on the stairs, hold it in one hand and use the handrail with the other. Don’t let what you’re carrying block your view of the steps. • Make sure there is good lighting with light switches at the top and bottom of stairs and on each end of a long hall. • Keep areas where you walk tidy. • Check that all carpets are fixed firmly to the floor so they won’t slip. Put no-slip strips on tile and wooden floors. • Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs. In Bathrooms and Powder Rooms • Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your tub and shower. • Place non-skid mats, strips, or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. • Remember to turn on night lights. In Your Bedroom • Put night lights and light switches close to your bed. • Keep a flashlight by your bed in case the power is out and you need to get up. • Keep your telephone near your bed. In Other Living Areas • Keep electric cords and telephone wires near walls and away from walking paths. • Secure all carpets and large area rugs firmly to the floor. • Arrange your furniture and other objects so they are not in your way when you walk. • Make sure your sofas and chairs are the right height for you to get in and out of them easily. • Don’t walk on newly washed floors—they are slippery. • Keep items you use often within easy reach. • Don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s too high—use a “reach stick” instead or ask for help. • Know where your pet is whenever you’re standing or walking. • Keep emergency numbers in large print near each telephone. Your Own Medical Alarm. If you’re concerned about falling, think about getting an emergency response system. If you fall or need emergency help, you push a button on a special necklace
or bracelet to alert 911. There is a fee for this service, and it is not usually covered by insurance. Home Improvements Prevent Falls. Many State and local governments have education and/or homemodification programs to help older people prevent falls. Check with your local health department, or local Area Agency on Aging to see if there is a program near you. The team at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers knows how important balance and walking is for independent living, as well as for work activities, exercise, sports and enjoying life in general. We offer the following programs and therapies to help reduce the risk of falls: • Assessment and Evaluation Programs • Difficulty Walking
• Gait Training and Balance Programs • Fall Prevention and Balance Retraining • Manual Therapy • Fitness and Wellness Programs • Vestibular Rehab
Bring your life back into balance! With our dedicated team of physical therapists behind you, you’ll regain confidence in navigating challenging terrain and learning how to avoid dizzy spells. You may even be able to leave that cane or walker behind! Call us today to schedule a Fall Risk assesment available for FREE only for a limited time! https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fall-proofing-your-home
NORTHEAST OFFICE 4758 Loma Del Sur El Paso, TX 79934 P: (915) 755-0738 F: (915) 593-5187
EAST OFFICE 8111 N. Loop
WEST SIDE OFFICE 4646 N. Mesa El Paso, TX 79912 P: (915) 313-6331 F: (915) 533-9672
JOE BATTLE OFFICE 2270 Joe Battle Blvd
El Paso, TX 79907 P: (915) 593-4985 F: (915) 593-5187
El Paso, TX 79938 P: (915) 855-7780 F: (915) 855-7781
www.fyzical.com/northeast-el-paso www.fyzical.com/east-el-paso www.fyzical.com/west-el-paso/ www.fyzical.com/joe-battle-el-paso
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