Begin your fall-prevention plan by making an appointment with your doctor. Be prepared to answer questions such as:

• What medications are you taking?
• Have you fallen before?
• Could your health conditions cause a fall?

• Walk
• Water aerobics
• Tai chi/Yoga
• Afraid of exercises? Doctors may refer you to a Physical Therapist

• Avoid high heels, floppy slippers, and shoes with slick soles
• Wear properly fitted shoes, sturdy shoes, with non-skid soles

Take a look around your home. Your living room, kitchen, bathroom, hallways, & stairways may be filled with hazards. To make your home safer:

1. Remove boxes, newspapers, electronic cords, & phone cords from walkways.
2. Move coffee tables, magize racks, and plant stands from high traffice areas.
3. Secure loose rugs with double faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing -- or remove loose rugs from home.
4. Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease, or food.
5. Use nonslip mats in bathrub or showers.

Keep your home brightly lit to avoid tripping on objects that are hard to see. Also:

• Place night lights in bedroom, bathroom, & hallways.
• Make clear paths to light switches that aren't near room entrances.
• Turn on lights before going up or down stairs.
• Store flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages.

Your doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady. Other assistive devices can help, too. For example:

• Hand rails for both sides of stairways.
• Nonslip treads for bare-wood steps.
• A raised toiled seat or one with armrests.
• Grab bars for shower/tub.

Special equipment may require a PT/OT evaluation.