Fall Prevention Checklist

• Have a lamp or light switch that you can easily reach without getting out of beb.
• Use night-lights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways.
• Keep a flashlight handy
• Have light switches at both ends of stairs and halls. Install hand-rails on both sides of stairs.
• Turn on the lights when you go into the house at night.
• Add gab bars in shower, tub and toilet areas.
• Use bath mats with suction cups
• Use nonslip Adhesive strips or a mat in shower or tub
• Consider sitting on a bench or stool in the shower.
• Consider using an elevated toilet seat.
• Wear nonslip, low-heeled shoes or slippers that fit snugly. Don't walk around in stocking feet.
• Remove all extraneous clutter in your house.
• Keep telephone and electrical cords out of pathways.
• Tack rugs and glue vinyl flooring so they lie flat. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip, or attached nonslip backing.
• Ensure that carpets are firmly attached to the stairs.
• Use helping devices, such as canes, when necessary.
• Purchase a step stool with high and sturdy handrails. Repair or discard wobbly step stools. Do not stand on a chair to reach things. Store frequently used objects where you can reach them easily.
• Paint the edges of outdoor steps and any steps that are especially narrow or are higher or lower than the rest.
• Paint outside stairs with a mixture of sand and paint for better traction. Keep outdoor walkways clear and well lit.
• Keep snow and ice off entrances and sidewalks.
• Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Some drugs, including over-the-counter drugs, can make you drowsy, dizzy and unsteady.
• Watch your alcohol intake. More than two drinks per day can cause unsteadiness.
• Have your hearing and eyesight tested. Inner ear problems can affect balance. Vision problems make it difficult to see potential hazards.
• Exercise regularly to improve muscle flexibility and strength.
• If you feel dizzy or light-headed, sit down or stay seated until your head clears. Stand up slowly to avoid unsteadiness.

Source: Preventing Falls: A Safety Checklist, Lifeline.

Renai Ehrichs,
OSLC Parish Nurse

Phone: 233-1889
or through OSLC Office
Email: r_ehrichs@hotmail.com

What does Parish Health ministry do?

• Reflect God's love through professional and personal caring and confidentiality.
• Serve as a resource for health information to members and church committees and promote health living by communicating wellness in the church newsletter and bulletin.
• Serve as a health educator-being available to lead or arrange health related programs.
• Know the community resources that are available and/or direct those in need to the appropriate resource and assist members to utilize and understand the health care system/services.
• Support the formation of support and discussion groups in areas related to
  physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

What Parish Health Ministry is NOT?

Parish Health Ministry is not a substitute for pastoral care,medical care, community health nursing or social agencies, but rather works in partnership with these disciplines. The focus of Parish Health Ministry is on prevention/health promotion, rather than "hands on" physical care. Parish Health Ministry does not provide physical care, administer medication, draw blood, or do other invasive procedures.