- Lack of handrail support
- Lack of lighting
- Steps/step coverings in poor repair
Stairway Activity:
- Hurrying up/down steps
- Carrying loads, unable to see steps
- Wearing socks (easy to slip on steps)
- Not using handrails
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- Install handrails on both sides of steps (handrails should extend beyond top/bottom step so elders know they are on solid footing; handrails should be round in shape to ensure good grasp)
- Install increased stairway lighting and check for shadows that may cause visual confusion
- Provide lighting at top/bottom of steps where most falls occur
- Repair faulty steps/coverings
- Install carpet or non-slip rubber treads on each step (carpeted stairs are preferable to bare steps because they are less slippery)
- Work on education/behavior modification to change potentially accident-prone stairway activity (i.e., grasp hand rails)
- Wear supportive footwear with slip-resistant soles
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