Falls Prevention/Accessibility Modifications
Older adults can take several steps to protect their independence and reduce their risk of falling. They can:
- Exercise regularly; exercise programs like Tai Chi that increase strength and improve balance are especially good.
- Ask their doctor or pharmacist to review their medicines–both prescription and over-the counter–to reduce side effects and interactions.
- Have their eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year.
- Improve the lighting in their home.
- Reduce hazards in their home that can lead to falls.
Sample of Rebuilding Together Interventions:
- Install grab bars
- Widen doorways to accommodate wheelchairs
- Improve lighting
- Reduce clutter on stairways and pathways
- Eliminate scatter rugs
- Install no slip strips in bathtubs
- Install or repair handrails on stairways
- Install telephone in bedroom and regular sitting area
- Install comfort height toilet
- Reduce hot water heater temperature to 120 degrees
- Install peepholes in all exterior doors
- Install easy-to-grip lever door hardware
- Install lever handle sink faucets
- Install photosensitive exterior lighting
- Install wireless light switch at the entrance to rooms that do not have a light switch
- Install wheel chair ramp system as needed
- Repair front and rear porch steps as needed