- Poor lighting
- Electrical cords across the floor
- Beds/chairs that don't suppoort safe egress
- Obstacles in pathways
- Sliding throw rugs
- Upended carpet edges
|
- Ensure a light is within easy arm’s reach of the bed, and use nightlights to illuminate the path from the bed to the bathroom
- Avoid rearranging bedroom furniture so people with limited vision do not stumble over objects and fall
- Provide bright light making it easier to avoid obstacles and furnishings
- Rearrange lights and electronics along the walls and out of pathways
- Remove clutter so paths are wide, straight and clear
- Remove throw rugs from pathways or secure them with non-slip backing
- Position closet shelves between waist and shoulder high to avoid excessive bending/reaching
- Ensure proper bed height (when sitting on edge of bed, elder’s knees should be 90 degrees, with both feet flat on floor)
- Use enabling side rail/transfer pole to assist with safe bed egress
- Provide stable chairs with armrests to help people with weak arms stand up safely
|
