Preventing Falls and Fractures

Take the first step.

Talk to your physician about preventing broken bones.

• Ask about a bone mineral density test
• Certain medications can cause dizziness
• Plan an exercise program
• Have your vision and hearing tested often
• Take time to get used to new eyeglasses
• Make sure your hearing aid fits well

Step out and do your part.

Increase confidence in your mobility.

• Always stand up slowly after eating or lying down
• Don't let your home get too cold or too hot
• During hot weather, drink lots of liquids
• Use a cane or walker to help you feel steadier
• Avoid walking on wet or icy surfaces
• Wear rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes
• Hold handrails when you use the stairs
• Never stand on a chair or table

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Eliminate unsafe areas in your home.

In stairways, hallways, and pathways:

• Have light switches at top and bottom of stairs
• Have handrails on both sides of all stairs
• Keep areas where you walk uncluttered
• Have rugs fixed firmly and smoothly to the floor
• Apply no-slip strips in walking paths

In bathrooms and powder rooms:

• Mount grab bars near toilets and the tub and shower
• Place non-skid mats on all surfaces that get wet

In your bedroom:

• Put night lights close to your bed
• Keep a telephone near your bed

In other living areas:

• Keep electric cords away from walking paths
• Use furniture you can get into and out of easily

Consider the value of a home monitoring system with a push button kept on your person to alert emergency service.

For more information or to make a referral please contact:

Augusta Office

One Tenth Street, Suite 500
Augusta, Georgia 30901
Tel: 706-854-7500
Fax: 706-854-7550