EXERCISE REGULARLY
Exercise at least 4 times a week. Being in shape helps to maintain your balance and coordination, as well as your strength. Walk, it is a great exercise. Your exercise program should include strength training, balance work, flexibility work and aerobic activity. If you are not sure what is appropriate for you visit your physical therapist to assist with establishment of a personalized exercise program.

TAKE YOUR TIME
Move carefully, especially when changing levels such as lying to sitting, and sitting to standing. This can reduce dizziness and promotes balance awareness.

AVOID CLUTTER AND CONGESTION
Keep walking paths clear of cords, shoes, clothing, books and other clutter. Use cordless phone and especially those with clips or holders so that the phones are always easily reached. Remove large coffee tables from the middle of small rooms or place them against a wall.

BE SURE THAT YOU CAN SEE YOUR WAY
Be sure your vision is supported adequately. See your eye doctor. Be sure your glasses are appropriate and your pathway is well lit. Use touch lamps and dusk to dawn lights or motion detector lighting inside your home as well as outside of your home.

AVOID WET SLIPPERY AREAS
Use non-slip mats in your tub/shower as well as outside your tub/shower. Wipe up spills quickly and avoid placing pet food and pet water in your walking areas.

REMOVE OR TACK-DOWN RUGS
Avoid throw rugs. If you must use a rug be sure the edges are secured to the floor using double sided carpet tape or Velcro.

USE RAILS AND GRAB BARS ON UNLEVEL SURFACES
Use bars in bathtubs, showers, and stairs or anywhere you must make a large unleveled step. Install rails or grab bars on left and right sides. Remember, you will have to return from wherever you are going—shower, upstairs, downstairs, etc.

WEAR STURDY WELL FITTING NON-SLIP SHOES
Sturdy, enclosed, low heeled, non-skid shoes will assist with your balance, stride and will help to avoid slipping.

SIT IN FIRM CHAIRS OF APPROPRIATE HEIGHT
In order to rise and lower to sit/stand easily, sit in firm chairs that have seats at your knee level. Low chairs increase difficulty of rising and lowering. Raise seat height by folding a blanket or quilt to the exact measurements/shape of the chair seat. Avoid bed pillows. Bed pillows eventually press down too low.

AVOID OVER REACHING
Avoid reaching beyond your limits (too high or too low). Ask family members to move items you use regularly to a reachable height.

PACE YOURSELF
Set-up chores and distance-tasks with breaks so that you do not become exhausted. Rushing and exhaustion increases your risk of falling. Set-up chairs raised stools to allow you to work and support your balance.

USE APPROPRIATE WALKING EQUIPMENT
Be sure canes and walkers have appropriate rubber tips and all parts are secure. Use your supporting equipment appropriately and as needed.

USE PERSONAL ALARM SYSTEMS
Use personal alarm systems especially if you live alone and especially if you have any difficulty rising from the floor.