Fall Prevention
The Basics
- Remove tripping hazards– keep paths clear and clean up spills
- Exercise regularly to stay fit (20-30 minutes per day)
- Have your eyes checked each year
- Eat healthy to stay strong and avoid dehydration
- At yearly check-ups tell your doctor if you have had falls
- Know the effects of your medication and if they increase your risk of falling
- Wear well-fitting clothes (loose clothes can cause you to trip)
- Wear supportive shoes with good grips
- Ask about equipment for you and your home that can prevent falls
- Avoid rushing! Change positions slowly and give yourself time
- Make sure handrails on stairs are secure
- Make sure you have good lighting along your path
- Avoid icy walkways – always walk slow
- Call for help if you fall – find a daily call buddy to check-in
If you fall and are alone:
- Roll on your side and sit up if you can
- Turn on your hands and knees and crawl to stable furniture
- Place one foot on the floor
- Lean forward and push up with your other foot
- Rest and tell someone you have fallen
If you fall and you cannot get up:
- Try to drag yourself to a phone to call 9-1-1
- Stay warm wrap yourself in anything nearby
- If you are in a wet area move away from the wet area
- Move your arms and legs regularly
Prevent falls in hospital:
- Call for help if you have a fall
- Ask for help if you feel weak or dizzy
- Use your call bell to call for help to get up
Follow the advice from your care team for:
- Changing positions and moving around
- Using your walking equipment (keep brakes on equipment when not moving)