Stand Tall

Most falls don't just happen. In fact, taking a few safety precautions around the home can help you-or your loved ones-avoid getting tripped up.

Living areas should have:

• Electrical cords or telephone wires away from walking paths
• Rugs secured to the floor
• Furniture-especially low coffee tables-arranged so as not to interfere with walking

Stairways should have:

• Good lighting, with light switches at top and bottom
• Firmly attached carpet and abrasive strips to secure footing
• Tightly fastened handrails along both sides

Bathrooms should have:

• Grab bars in tubs and showers and near toilets
• Non-skid mats, abrasive strips or carpet on surfaces that may get wet
• Nightlights

Source: National Institute on Aging