Tips on preventing falls at home

Mayo Clinic emergency departments see patients every day who've been injured by falls. Many of those falls happen at home, and here are just a few easy things you can do to prevent them. It starts with reviewing any medications you're taking with your health care team.

Be informed about any medical conditions that could make you more prone to falls. Other tips inside the house: Wear sensible shoes instead of slippery socks, high heels or flip-flops. Remove clutter and tripping hazards from high-traffic areas. Secure loose rugs with tape or nonslip backing. Keep your home brightly lit, and place a night light in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways. Use an assistive device, such as a walker or cane, if needed. And if you have pets, be aware that they might be at your feet.

Stay physically active to avoid future falls. Gentle exercise, like walking or tai chi, improves strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. And report all your falls to your health care team, even if they seem trivial.
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