You can make certain changes in your home to reduce the chance of falls.

• Remove raised doorway thresholds, throw rugs, and clutter.
• Repair loose carpet or raised areas in the floor that may cause you to trip.
• Rearrange furniture and electrical cords to keep them out of walking paths.
• Use nonskid floor wax, and wipe up spills immediately, especially on ceramic tile floors.
• Keep stairways, porches, and outside walkways well lit. Use night lights in areas such as hallways and bathrooms.
• Install sturdy handrails on stairways, and put grab handles and nonskid mats inside and outside your shower/tub and near the toilet.
• Use shower chairs and bath benches.
• Add extra light switches if needed or use remote switches (such as clap-on switches) or timers on lights by doors and near your bed to reduce having to get up quickly or walk across the room in the dark.
• Put items within easy reach so you do not need to reach overhead for them.
• Keep a cordless phone and a flashlight with new batteries by your bed.