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Home » Topics » Managing the effects of stroke » Changes in mobility » Preventing Falls

Preventing Falls

There are many ways to make your home safer to lower your risk of falling.

What can I do to prevent falls?

There are many ways to make your home safer to lower your risk of falling. 

Things you can adjust in your house include: 

Clear floor
Keep the floor clean and clear
Remove clutter
Remove clutter to make extra space to move around
Remove rugs and mats or tape down the edges
Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways
Make sure there is enough light when you walk around at night   
Mark tripping hazards such as the edge of a step with bright colour tape
Keep items you use all the time within reach
Install handrails on stairs
Use safety equipment in the bathroom

Other things you can do to lower your risk of falls include:

  • Use walking aids recommended by your therapist
  • Wear non-slip, low-heeled shoes 
  • Exercise every day to improve your mobility, strength and balance
  • Review medicines with your doctor or pharmacist because some medicines can make you drowsy and dizzy

You may want to call Home and Community Care and ask the coordinator for an in-home assessment from their team. They can connect you to the right support to help you prevent falls and move safely around your home. 

Getting a personal emergency response system may also help. These devices help you call 911 in case you fall or get hurt while alone. They are often small buttons you can wear around your neck.  Visit the Toronto Central Healthline website to find product examples.

What happens if I fall?

Sometimes, falls happen. 

Watch a video about how to be helped up after a fall

Having read the information in this section, consider the following:

  • Do I need any equipment to help prevent me from falling?
  • Do I know what strategies to use to prevent falls?

Where to get more information, help and support:

Toronto Central Healthline

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