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Safety Tips

Safety begins at home!What can I do to protect myself?
  • Stay fit
  • Know your risk factors.
  • Know your physical limitations and get help if you need it.
  • Maintain good posture in all activities.
  • Use proper body mechanics.

Reduce your risk of falling
Nationally, more than one-third of adults 65 years and older fall each year. In Spokane, approximately 1,000 seniors are hospitalized annually for fall-related injuries. Across Washington state, the rate of these injuries has steadily increased since 2000. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of falling.
  • Begin a regular exercise program
    Exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce your chances of falling. It makes you stronger and helps you feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination (like Tai Chi) are the most helpful. Ask your doctor or health care worker about the best type of exercise program for you.


  • Make good footwear choices
    Wearing safe shoes can significantly reduce the risk of a serious injury from a fall. Look for shoes with ties or velcro closures and nonskid soles and avoid high heels, sandals and loose slippers.


  • Review your medicines
    Have your doctor or pharmacist look at all of your medications, including all over-the-counter medications. A dosage change or medication combination can make you drowsy or light-headed, which can put you at risk for a fall.


  • Have your vision checked
    Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor yearly. You may be wearing the wrong glasses or have a condition such as glaucoma or cataracts that limits your vision. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling.


  • Make your home safer:


      • - Remove throw rugs
      - Or, use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so rugs won‘t slip.
      - Move furniture so there is a clear path in all rooms.
      - Remove clutter from the floor.
      - Install handrails on both sides of the stairway.
      - Move items in cabinets to keep frequently-used supplies on lower shelves.
      - Never use a chair as a step stool.
      - Put a nightlight along the path from your bed to the bathroom.
      - Have a grab bar placed in your shower and next to the toilet.